Washington, D.C. — Today, Congresswoman Annie Kuster (NH-02) issued the following statement in recognition of the one-year anniversary of Hamas’ horrific terrorist attack on Israel:

“On October 7th, 2023, Israel experienced the worst terrorist attack in the country’s history at the hands of Hamas terrorists. These brutal terrorists indiscriminately attacked Jewish neighborhoods, families, and children, killing more than 1,400 innocent Israelis and taking hundreds of hostages—including American citizens—in a brazen affront to humanity and the dignity of life. Today and every day, we remember those who lost their lives and the innocent hostages still held captive.

“The United States stands with our friends and allies in Israel as they continue to reckon with the aftermath of this barbaric assault. Israel has the right to self-defense and must protect itself and its people in the face of rising threats of terror in the region, as we have seen with escalatory attacks carried out by an emboldened Iran and Hezbollah in recent weeks. 

“Over the past year, the world has witnessed humanitarian devastation in the region, with thousands of innocent civilians—primarily women and children—caught in the crossfire. We must recommit to protecting innocent lives on both sides of this conflict, minimizing the collateral damage, and delivering vital humanitarian relief to those in desperate need of aid.

“It is time for both parties to come back to the negotiating table in good faith and finally bring an end to this war. It is time for a lasting ceasefire agreement that secures the safe release of the remaining hostages and protects innocent lives in Israel, Gaza, and beyond. It is time to look toward building a future where both the Israeli and Palestinian people, and the broader region, can live together in peace and dignity—and I firmly believe a Two-State Solution is the best way to achieve this lasting security."

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