Press Releases

Washington, D.C. – Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA-34) statement on cessation of hostilities in the Israel-Hamas conflict and “NO” vote on the politicized Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act: 

“The world stands at a critical moment, and leaders must base decisions on intelligence, U.S. security interests, and the promotion of peace and stability in the region, not on politics. Speaker Mike Johnson failed that test with his politicized security supplemental that would have been paid for by letting billionaire tax cheats off the hook.

“As I have said before, I believe that the conflict between Israel and Hamas must be contained by holding to account the terrorists responsible, protecting innocent people, and defeating Hamas, all while preventing a larger regional conflict. As Israel acts to do this, the terribly high civilian toll inside Gaza is unacceptable and has reached a point where a cessation of hostilities is appropriate and prudent.

“We need a cessation of hostilities to secure the release of hostages, re-establish safe zones and allow aid to get to those who need it. Furthermore, the strikes on the Jabalya refugee camp lead me to believe that Israel must reassess their counterterrorism approach, so that their military can continue to target Hamas, Islamic Jihad, and other terrorist elements with surgical precision, while upholding their stated commitment to protecting civilians.

“Even as Hamas uses Palestinian civilians as human shields and operates in civilian zones, the United States must continue calls to prevent the deaths of innocent children and people.  

“As I’ve made clear, Israel has a right to defend its people and respond to the despicable attacks by Hamas terrorists in accordance with international humanitarian law and with all due regard for innocent civilians. Just this week a Hamas leader promised further attacks. History has shown that unanswered aggression and violence only begets more of the same and would signal to the perpetrators of the heinous October 7 attacks that there would be no accountability for their actions.  

“To that end, Israel has our support in targeting and defeating Hamas with precision, while ensuring the protection of innocent Palestinians and Israelis. Calling for a cessation of hostilities is not a decision made based on politics, but on promoting the long-term goal for peace in the region and preventing more horrific and needless deaths.”