Congressman Carson Statement on the Crisis in Israel and the Gaza Strip

Statement

Today, Congressman Carson issued the following statement in response to the ongoing crisis in Israel and the Gaza Strip.

"What started with the tragic death of three Israeli and one Palestinian teenager a few weeks ago has now led to hundreds of deaths. Sadly, the continued failure of Israel and Hamas to reach a ceasefire agreement has been a significant setback that has resulted in further loss of life.

"Since the start of this conflict, both sides have become increasingly entrenched. Escalating rocket fire and a ground offensive are putting a far greater number of lives at risk. This is why it is so imperative that Hamas stop launching rockets and Israel withdraw from Gaza immediately.

"For its part, the United States should do everything it can to end this conflict diplomatically. We must make clear that indiscriminate targeting that puts innocent civilians in danger is unacceptable and must be avoided at all costs. As I wrote to the President previously, the welfare of innocent civilians must be addressed and promoted. Both Israel and Hamas must be encouraged to show restraint, allow tensions to subside and come together to reach a ceasefire agreement. This is the only way a lasting peace will be achieved and negotiators can return to negotiating a long overdue two-state solution.

"Israelis and Palestinians desire to live in peace, without the tensions that dominate their politics and the devastation it so regularly causes. This is not the time for blame or retribution. It is time to set aside political considerations and find a way to reach peace for millions who truly want it."

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