Rep. Panetta’s Statement on the Proposed Pathway to Middle East Peace

Monterey, CA – United States Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA-19) released the following statement in support of the proposed three-stage plan to return Israeli hostages, bring a lasting ceasefire to Gaza, and provide a strong foundation for the “day after”: 

“Based on the leadership of the United States, there is now a pathway to peace for the war between Israel and Hamas. The framework of the phased-in peace plan would secure the eventual release of all hostages, surge humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians, protect Israel’s security, reconstruct Gaza, and achieve a permanent cessation of hostilities. The deal, a result of dogged diplomacy by the United States, is supported by Israel’s war cabinet and was negotiated with the full buy-in of Egypt and Qatar, who both continue to serve as mediators between Israel and Hamas. The plan would allow for a comprehensive military victory for Israel with the return of all hostages and the end of the war, and provide dignity and self-determination for Palestinians with the engagement of Arab partners, reconstruction of Gaza, and economic development of the West Bank.

“Although Hamas is a terrorist organization that committed a bloodthirsty attack against Israel and previously rejected the very same framework for peace, the proposal treats them as an equal negotiating partner with the power to accept or reject this deal. That is why all eyes must be on Hamas to accept this comprehensive proposal that lays the foundation for a peace between Israel and the Palestinian people and a pathway to prosperity for the region.”

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