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

“I welcome the agreement to secure the release of 50 hostages, including Americans, who were among those abducted by the Hamas terrorist organization during its brutal assault against Israel on October 7^th and held captive in Gaza. I am thankful for the efforts of President Biden and his Administration, in partnership with Qatar and Egypt, in securing this agreement, which also provides for an extended humanitarian pause to allow for additional life-saving humanitarian aid to reach innocent civilians in Gaza. The success of this agreement depends upon all parties adhering to the commitments made and ensuring full implementation, and I am hopeful that this will be done. 

“Finally, it’s crucial this agreement serves as a foundation to build on continual progress, including the release of all the remaining hostages and ensuring additional measures are taken to alleviate the humanitarian disaster for civilians in Gaza.”

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