Washington, D.C: Progressive members of the United States Congress have introduced a resolution calling for an "immediate de-escalation and ceasefire in the conflict between Israel and occupied Palestine." This resolution, presented on Monday, has garnered support from over a dozen Democratic representatives, including Cori Bush, Rashida Tlaib, Summer Lee, Ayanna Pressley, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, and Ilhan Omar, reflecting a growing chorus of voices in Washington advocating for a ceasefire in the Gaza region.
The proposed resolution emphasizes the sanctity of all human life, regardless of faith or ethnicity, and condemns the targeting of civilians as a violation of international humanitarian law.
Despite traditionally strong support for Israel in Congress, Cori Bush, in an online briefing with reporters, stressed the urgency of this resolution as an opportunity for Americans to rally together. She stated, "Leaders must act in accordance with the will of the people, and our constituents across the nation will be reaching out to our colleagues, urging them to join us."
The conflict in Gaza erupted on October 7 when the Palestinian group Hamas executed a highly coordinated attack on Israel from the blockaded Gaza Strip, resulting in numerous casualties and the capture of dozens of individuals. In response, Israel launched a sustained bombing campaign, resulting in the deaths of more than 2,800 Palestinians, including hundreds of children in Gaza. The World Health Organization has documented numerous attacks on medical facilities in Gaza, leading to the tragic loss of at least 12 health workers.
Furthermore, Israeli authorities imposed a comprehensive blockade on Gaza, restricting the flow of fuel and essential supplies into the territory. Israel also issued an evacuation order to over 1 million people, including hospital patients, in northern Gaza, an action that the United Nations deemed "impossible."
Progressive lawmakers and advocates have emphasized that the United States holds the influence to help bring an end to the ongoing conflict. With the threat of a land invasion into Gaza looming, Cori Bush warned that the lives of hundreds of thousands, if not millions, hang in the balance. She criticized the United States government for supporting this conflict, labeling it as "shameful."
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