WASHINGTON – On July 11, the House of Representatives unanimously passed a resolution that supports the State of Israel’s right to defend itself against unprovoked rocket attacks from Hamas, the terrorist organization based in Gaza.  

Rep. Jeffries cosponsored the bipartisan resolution that was introduced by Reps. Steve Israel (D-NY) and Tom Cole (R-OK).  The resolution reaffirms congressional support for Israel’s right to defend itself against terrorist attacks and calls on Hamas to cease all air strikes against Israel immediately.  The resolution currently has 166 cosponsors.

“The terror unleashed by Hamas will not be countenanced.  The barrage of rocket fire directed indiscriminately at Israeli citizens are clear human rights violations that must cease immediately,” said Rep. Hakeem Jeffries.  “Israel has a right to defend itself in the same manner as any other nation in the world, and the United States should continue to stand shoulder to shoulder with our close ally until quiet has been restored.”

Hamas, an Islamist party, has governed the Gaza Strip since 2007.  They are designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, Canada, Australia, Egypt and the European Union. 

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Rep. Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) represents the 8^th Congressional District of New York, which includes the neighborhoods of Canarsie, Mill Basin, Bergen Beach, Coney Island, Brighton Beach and Sea Gate.

Click HERE to read the full text of House Resolution 657 that supports the State of Israel’s right to self-defense.