Washington, D.C. — Today, U.S. Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (D-GA) issued the following statement on the escalating violence in the Middle East. 

“The tragic escalation of violence this week in Israel and the Palestinian territories is heartbreaking. I condemn the rocket attacks from Hamas and other groups against Israeli civilians, and support Israel’s right to defend its innocent citizens. Israel has a right to defend itself from terrorism, but it also has an increased duty to prevent the death of Palestinian civilians. I also recognize the deep, legitimate pain and suffering of the Palestinian community. 

“Moreover, I am deeply concerned by actions of politicians and leaders that undermine the potential for a return to final status negotiations and long-term peace.

“Most Israelis and Palestinians want to live side-by-side in harmony. However, building peace is deeply challenging work, and any steps toward justice can be destroyed overnight. I encourage the Administration to engage quickly and deliberately to act as a convener to reach an immediate cease-fire, protect the lives of civilians who are living in fear, and begin the vital work of building a just and better society for all those in the region. And in the long-term, we must all recommit to working toward a two-state solution that will preserve life and maintain peace.”

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