Rep. Eric Massa (D-NY) Statement Regarding the Violence in Gaza

Washington, DC – New Member of the House Armed Services Committee Congressman Eric Massa today issued the following statement regarding the violence in Gaza.

"The United States and our allies must push for a complete and immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.  A ceasefire must include an end to the continued firing of rockets into Israel. Israel has a duty to defend its citizens, Arab and Jew alike. However, military action alone cannot be the basis for an end to the rocket fire or for ultimate reconciliation among the parties.  I believe that America must take an active role to stop the fighting, so that a diplomatic process that ultimately leads to a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians takes place." "I believe that once there is a ceasefire, it should be followed quickly by actions responding to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. I call on Hamas to recognize the State of Israel’s right to exist, cease terrorist activity, and abide by all previous agreements between Israel and the Palestinians; and urge Israel and other nations to assist in the development of a fully functioning state of Palestine. This will help to create the conditions for a political initiative, led by the United States, the United Nations, and others, to create a negotiated end to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that offers real hope for stability and a decent future for all the peoples of the region." "I urge President Bush and the new Obama administration to work with our allies to create the conditions for peace, and to then use their full authority and influence to bring a just and permanent end to this tragic conflict. I will do all in my power to ensure President Obama has the resources, legal authority and political support necessary to achieve this objective."