Rep. Cleaver’s Statement on One-Year Anniversary of October 7th Terrorist Attack on Israel

"One year ago today, the Israeli people experienced a brutal, barbaric terrorist attack from Hamas, one in which over 1,200 people were killed, including 46 Americans, and over 250 people were taken hostage. October 7, 2023, marked the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust.

"While I am thankful for the safe release of over 100 hostages since that day, I pray for, and mourn with, the families of those who will not return home due to the atrocities perpetrated by Hamas. As a Member of Congress, I will continue to do everything I can to facilitate the safe return of the remaining innocents being held captive by the terrorist organization, and as I have all of my adult life, I will continue to strongly condemn the surge of antisemitism that we have seen in America and around the world.

"I have always believed that Israel has the right to exist and the right to defend itself against attacks from Hamas, Hezbollah, Houthis, Iran, or any other threat to its safety and security. Yet, how the leadership of Israel engages in its defense matters. The Israeli government's pursuit of terrorists in Gaza, and now in Lebanon, has led to mass destruction and devastation. At least 101 hostages are still being held by Hamas, over 41,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, and thousands more have been injured. Millions of families have been displaced, and Gaza has become unlivable. It is a humanitarian disaster.

"Both Israelis and Palestinians have the right to live in peace, with dignity, and to have the freedom of self-determination. As we pray for the souls taken too soon, I urge all parties to work towards de-escalation and a ceasefire, so that further loss of life is prevented, peace can take hold, and the critically important work toward a two-state solution can begin."

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