Amid Gaza Strikes, J Street Calls for Restoration of Calm, US To Help Prevent Escalation

August 5, 2022

J Street is deeply concerned by the escalation of violence in Gaza and the potential for the outbreak of broader violence.

Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) is a terrorist organization responsible for horrific attacks against Israeli civilians. Israel has the same right as any other country to defend itself from the threats posed by such an entity.

It is also clear that the situation in and around Gaza following Israel’s strike against a Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) commander could escalate quickly and spiral out of control. All parties have an obligation to adhere to international law and do their utmost to avoid casualties among innocent people. There should be an immediate effort to restore calm, and we urge the United States and other relevant parties including Egypt to do all they can to help ratchet down tensions and prevent a broader, lengthier conflict.