Leader Schumer Floor Remarks On “Phase One” Of The Ceasefire And Hostage Agreement Between Israel And Hamas
Washington, D.C. – Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) today spoke on the Senate floor on the agreed-upon “phase one” of the Israel-Hamas ceasefire and hostage agreement, and the continued work for further negotiations and lasting peace in the region. Below are Senator Schumer’s remarks, which can also be viewed here:
Last night, nearly two years to the day of Hamas’ vicious attack on October 7th, and after nearly two long years of devastating war in Gaza, it appears that a ceasefire and hostage agreement has been reached.
If this agreement is implemented, then finally, after two years of immense suffering, the hostages could soon be free, there could be a ceasefire, and the victims of this painful 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 the 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 – a lasting peace – that ensures security and dignity for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
This morning, I hope and pray that all of the hostages are released, including the deceased hostages. I will never give up until all the hostages are home, including the remains of 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.
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