Tonko Statement on Netanyahu Address

I, many of my constituents, and countless more across the globe have stood united in an urgent call for a ceasefire. A ceasefire is the only path forward that will put an end to the violence in Gaza, bring the remaining Israeli hostages home and deliver essential humanitarian aid.

I am more than ready to have meaningful discussions about how to end the violence and bring lasting peace to the region. But-through his words and actions-Prime Minister Netanyahu has made clear he has no intention to do that with his address. For that reason, I will not attend.

I will be spending today, and the days that follow, conferring and standing with members of Congress, families of hostages, and Palestinian and Israeli leaders who are pursuing a path towards peace.