In the aftermath of the heinous attacks on Israel orchestrated by the Iran-backed terrorist organization Hamas, it is crucial to acknowledge Israel's right to defend itself. Israel has suffered unimaginable horrors. Entire families were tragically slaughtered in their homes. Parents lost their lives while shielding their infants from unspeakable atrocities. As the greatest democracy in the Middle East, Israel deserves our support.
To date, more than 1,000 Israelis and 14 Americans have been confirmed killed, with more than 2,800 wounded. Additionally, Hamas has taken at least 150 hostages in Gaza. Hamas wasn't solely targeting soldiers; they deliberately hunted down women, children, and families in their relentless pursuit to sow chaos. These actions are despicable and must be deemed as such.
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As a staunch supporter of Israel, I was a primary co-sponsor of the "Standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists" resolution. This resolution denounces Hamas’s brutal war against Israel, reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense, and reconfirms the United States’s commitment to Israel’s safety and security.
Do not be fooled: This was not the work of a rogue group of people acting without orders.
It was a meticulously planned and premeditated attack on Israel, strategically timed on the anniversary of the Yom Kippur War. The U.S. must respond decisively with appropriate humanitarian and military aid. There exists no excuse or rationale that can justify this brutal act of terrorism intended to destroy Israel.
As with al Qaeda's assault on our nation on Sept. 11, 2001, Hamas's atrocity was designed to maximize civilian casualties. In Israel’s fight to defend itself and its citizens, we have an obligation to stand with them.
Put simply, the Iranian-backed terror cell must be neutralized.
Israel’s struggle has persisted for generations. Still, its aggressors will never be satisfied until the nation itself is eradicated. It is thus imperative that this conflict concludes with an Israeli victory. The U.S. must help achieve that objective. Let us extend our prayers for the safety of Israeli citizens and unite to prevent a repeat of this calamity in the future.
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Rep. Dan Newhouse represents Washington's 4th Congressional District.