Leader Schumer Statement On Phase One Of Israel-Hamas Ceasefire And Hostage Agreement

"Finally, 732 days after Hamas's horrific and vicious October 7^th attack on Israel, and the following war in Gaza, a ceasefire and hostage agreement appears to have been reached. If implemented, finally, after two years of immense suffering, the hostages could soon be free, there could be a ceasefire, and the victims of this conflict can start to rebuild their lives. This brings a huge sigh of relief to the hostage families, to all of Israel, and to Palestinians who have suffered for so long in this horrific humanitarian catastrophe.

"Now we await details and final acceptance and implementation from all parties of the first phase. And we must begin the even harder work of closing negotiations: to end the war, to start building the day after in Gaza without Hamas, to surge humanitarian assistance to Palestinians in Gaza, and to build a lasting peace that ensures security and dignity for Israelis and Palestinians alike.

"I hope and pray that all of the hostages are released, including the deceased hostages. Let me be clear: I will never give up until all of the hostages are home, including my constituents: Omer Neutra and Itay Chen. I've gotten to know their families well over the last two years, and I share their desperation to bring them home for proper burial and closure.

"The work is not over, but any step to end this nightmare is one that should be celebrated and carefully implemented and followed through on."

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