WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jim Risch (R-Idaho), ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, today released the following statement marking one month since Hamas’ brutal attacks on Israel:
“Today marks one month since Hamas’ genocidal attack on innocent Israelis. Terrorists went door to door slaughtering men, women, and children with no regard for life. Hamas wanted the world to see its cruelty, which is why attackers recorded and broadcast their abuses across the world. Over 1,400 Israelis lost their lives.
“Hamas continues to jeopardize innocent lives in Gaza. The terror group is using protected sites, such as churches, hospitals and mosques, to launch terror attacks against Israel. We mourn the loss of innocent Palestinians killed as Hamas’ human shields.
“In addition to those killed, over 240 hostages have been abducted and taken to Gaza to be used as pawns. These hostages are Israelis, Americans, and dozens of other nationalities. They must be released unharmed and returned to their families immediately.
“Unfortunately, Hamas’ terrorism is far from over as it continues its violent assaults on Israel. The United States must be a leader and partner in restoring deterrence in the Middle East, including by enforcing sanctions on Iran, continuing diplomatic engagements, and using military force as needed to protect our troops, diplomats, citizens, and partners. The United States must stand with Israel until the job is done and Hamas can no longer terrorize Israelis or Palestinians. We will always remember the victims of the October 7th attacks and will work to bring the perpetrators to justice.”
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