STATEMENT ON PM NETANYAHU REGARDING A TWO-STATE SOLUTION

I condemn the remarks of Prime Minister Netanyahu and the rhetoric of Israel’s far-right government leaders who want to deny Palestinians the right to a state. I first called for a bilateral ceasefire in November, and I am continuing to do so because the temporary ceasefire agreement that allowed for the return of some hostages was not enough. A renewed ceasefire could allow for the safe release of all hostages, save lives, and facilitate assistance for the growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza. I continue to mourn the loss of Israeli and Palestinian lives and agonize about the horrors of terrorism and war. The U.S. must continue to engage diplomatically to remove Hamas from power, end the ongoing violence in the region, and advocate for peace through a two-state solution.