Since the horrific Hamas attack on Israel on October 7 and the ensuing war in Gaza with a large humanitarian toll, there are intensifying calls for an immediate ceasefire.
We are supportive of ongoing diplomatic efforts, led by the U.S. and regional leaders, to negotiate a mutually agreed-to pause in fighting that would include the release of all the hostages, humanitarian assistance for the civilians of Gaza, and the end to the threat posed by Hamas to the people of Israel and Gaza. All of this, we hope, will ultimately create conditions that could lead to a sustainable resolution to the conflict with peace, security and dignity for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
- At the same time, we have seen many highly problematic ceasefire resolutions considered by city councils, legislatures and other bodies. Specifically, many of these resolutions:
- Downplay, fail to condemn or even mention Hamas’s atrocities on October 7, including murder, brutalization, sexual violence and kidnapping;
- Diminish the plight of the hostages being held in Gaza or fail to call for the immediate release of all hostages, including the bodies being held by Hamas;
- Place the entire onus of this current war, and the entirety of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, on Israel;
- Utilizing demonizing language about Israel and Zionism, and include false and incendiary accusations about Israel;
- Ignoring the ongoing threats posed by Hamas to Israel, as well as Hamas’ track-record of breaking ceasefire agreements.
Another concern is that many hearings and public comments on these resolutions across the country have featured shocking antisemitic rhetoric directed at Jews and Zionists, creating a hostile environment surrounding these actions, including for many in attendance at the hearings. This is happening at a time when Jews in the United States and around the world, are confronting an unprecedented level of antisemitism.
The reality is this war, and the humanitarian crisis confronting Gazan civilians, could end today were Hamas to release all hostages, disarm and disband, end its rule of Gaza and free the civilians it purposefully puts in danger.
We urge public officials to keep these concerns in mind as they consider such resolutions.