WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, today issued the following statement after returning from a congressional delegation to Egypt, Israel, and Jordan. Ranking Member Smith led the delegation, which also included Representative Mikie Sherrill (D-NJ) and Representative Greg Landsman (D-Ohio).
“This delegation’s visit comes at a critical time given Israel’s operations to degrade Hamas, the worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the threat to regional stability posed by Iran-backed militia groups.
“After seeing the work being done and the process for aid to enter Gaza through the Rafah crossing, we urged Israel to take steps to increase the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Additional crossings must be open, logistical barriers that slow the flow of aid must be addressed, and Israel must ensure people in Gaza can safely move to areas with food, water, and medical care.
“In our meetings, the delegation expressed strong support for President Biden’s call for a comprehensive ceasefire agreement in the near term that would halt the fighting, secure the release of hostages, and allow for more humanitarian aid to enter Gaza to address the humanitarian crisis. In the long term, it is critical that Israel and countries in the region work together to eliminate the security threat posed by Hamas while providing a clear future of self-governance for the Palestinian people.
“Our partnerships in the region, with countries like Egypt and Jordan, are critical to the security and stability of the region. We appreciate the opportunity to exchange views on areas of disagreement while seeking opportunities to work more closely together on key diplomatic, security, and economic areas of shared interest.”
Background:
The congressional delegation met with senior U.S. diplomatic and military personnel in addition to holding constructive dialogues with senior Egyptian, Israeli, and Jordanian military, and civilian officials. In Egypt, the delegation met with Foreign Minister Shoukry, Defense Minister Zaki, Governor Shousha of North Sinai, and United Nations and Egyptian Red Crescent officials coordinating the flow of humanitarian aid to Gaza. In Israel, the delegation met with Prime Minister Netanyahu, Foreign Minister Katz, and Defense Minister Gallant. Finally in Jordan, the delegation met with Chief of Defense and representatives from the International Committee of the Red Cross and United Nations agencies supporting the people in Gaza and refugees in the region.
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