Rep. Robin Kelly on One Year after October 7 Attack

Washington - Today, Congresswoman Robin Kelly (IL-02) released the following statement marking one year after the terrorist attack by Hamas against Israel:

"One year ago, nearly 1,200 people were killed in a devastating terrorist attack by Hamas. I join Israel and the global Jewish community in mourning and honoring the innocent lives lost.

"In the year since, the conflict in Gaza has escalated across the region despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations, causing both Palestinian and Israeli civilian deaths. Just last week, Iran launched a ballistic missile attack on Israel, injuring two people in Tel Aviv and killing a Palestinian civilian in the West Bank.

"I support Israel's right to defend itself. However, I urge Prime Minister Netanyahu to end his war of vengeance and instead heed to US-led international calls for peace. The Prime Minister must not continue down a path of retaliation, costing innocent lives in the process and potentially pushing the region into a full-scale war.

"As a Member of Congress, I am cognizant that Americans are not untouched by the conflict in Gaza. In the past year, Islamophobic attacks and antisemitic hate has only increased against Palestinian and Jewish communities. Let me be clear: hate has no home here. Injustice in Gaza and in Israel is injustice everywhere. Palestinians, Israelis, and Lebanese have the right to live without fear, home and abroad. The US must lead the international community toward peace and dignity for all people.

"I continue to support a bilateral ceasefire, calling for the immediate release of all hostages and for a two-state solution. The people of Gaza are in immediate need of humanitarian assistance, including food, water, medical care, clothing, and shelter. We must honor the lives lost one year ago with clear action toward durable peace for both Palestinians and Israelis."