Beyer Statement On Gaza Ceasefire Agreement

Congressman Don Beyer (D-VA) today issued the following statement today on the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas:

"Like many people around the world I was heartened to hear last night's news of a long-overdue ceasefire agreement. It should be implemented without delay.

"It should not have taken this much time or this much suffering to end the killing and return the hostages. It is absolutely critical that, unlike in February, this agreement proceeds beyond an initial ceasefire into further phases which ensure that this becomes a lasting peace. U.S. pressure and policy must make that the paramount goal.

"The focus now should be on rebuilding shattered lives, homes and communities. We must ensure that aid reaches the needy, the sick and wounded receive treatment, and that orphans in Gaza are provided with care. None of this can occur on a necessary scale until the threat of imminent violence recedes not just from the Gaza Strip but from Israel, the West Bank and the wider region.

"This war has been an unparalleled catastrophe for Palestinians and Israelis alike. We cannot allow cynicism or hatred to triumph and conflict to resume."