WASHINGTON, D.C. – Representative Adam Smith (D-Wash.), Ranking Member of the House Armed Services Committee, issued the following statement regarding Israel and the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

"I strongly support the goal of significantly degrading and ultimately eliminating the Hamas terrorist organization. Israel must do all they can to make sure Hamas is never again able to carry out terrorist attacks. The horrors of the October 7th attack on Israeli civilians by Hamas militants should make that clear to everyone.

"This goal, however, will be more likely to be achieved if we also recognize and work to reduce the suffering of Palestinian civilians. Much more can be done right now by Israel, the United States, and others to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Food, water, medical supplies, and fuel must be allowed into Gaza—with appropriate safeguards—to reduce the suffering of the civilian population. I understand the risk that, no matter the safeguards, some of these supplies might fall into the hands of Hamas. But the risk of a worsening humanitarian crisis in Gaza if these supplies are not let in is far greater. The human toll would be devastating. The anger at that cost will without question serve as fertile terrorist recruiting ground for Hamas and other extremist organizations, while also increasing the risk the conflict would expand to other parts of the Middle East.

"More efforts must also be taken to reduce the impacts of Israel’s military campaign on the civilians in Gaza. Israel should allow for humanitarian pauses in fighting so that more aid can be brought into Gaza. The bombing campaign and ground incursions must also be done to the greatest extent possible to minimize civilian casualties.

"Again, there is risk to Israel in taking this approach. Hamas uses civilians as human shields and hides fighters and weapons in civilian locations like schools and mosques. But Israel must understand that the struggle against the Hamas terrorist organization will not be won in weeks or months. It will be a long struggle, one more likely to be won if Israel shows that, unlike Hamas, they value all lives and will work to reduce the suffering of all civilians in this horrific conflict."

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