Brooklyn, NY – Today, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries released the following statement marking one year since Hamas attacked Israel on October 7:

One year ago, we watched in horror and heartbreak as our democratic ally Israel was brutally attacked by Hamas terrorists who sought to wipe her off the face of the Earth. We continue to mourn those taken from us, stand with the people who are still recovering from the unthinkable violence and pray that the more than 100 hostages will be safely returned home soon.

Throughout this past year, we have been reminded of the painful reality that Israel and the Jewish people are in a constant struggle for their existence. Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran and its proxies seek the destruction of Israel. We will not let them succeed. 

On this somber day, we reiterate that America’s commitment to the safety and security of Israel is ironclad and unbreakable. The United States and Israel have a special relationship anchored in our shared values and strategic interests. Our support for the State of Israel, its right to defend herself and to exist as a Jewish and democratic state is enduring and will remain bipartisan. 

As we solemnly commemorate the horrific attack on October 7, we also recommit ourselves to the cause of eradicating terror and the achievement of a just and lasting peace in the region. I support the efforts of the Biden-Harris administration to reach a negotiated ceasefire in order to secure the return of the remaining hostages in Gaza and surge humanitarian assistance to Palestinian children and civilians who have been in harm’s way in a theater of war.

We continue to pray for peace, for healing for all those impacted by the evil unleashed by Hamas on that day and for the safety of Israel in the face of the ongoing challenges from Iran and its proxies. 

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