Today, U.S. Senator Kirsten Gillibrand issued the following statement on the release of hostages held in Gaza:
“I am thankful that a deal has been struck to allow 50 hostages to be released and returned to their families. Securing the release of hostages has been a top priority for me and the Biden administration since Hamas launched this brutal attack. Over the past month, I met with the families of hostages many times and have listened to their stories and shared their grief. I am grateful that for some, they will be reunited and can start the process of healing from this terrible ordeal. However, while this agreement is encouraging, I will not rest until every hostage is free and reunited with their loved ones.
This agreement is also important in that it will pause hostilities and enable additional humanitarian aid into Gaza for innocent Palestinians civilians, who have suffered greatly in the wake of this conflict. The Senate will continue working to deliver additional humanitarian assistance for these innocent men, women and children, as well to deliver aid to support Israel during this conflict.
I want to thank the Biden administration for its tireless dedication to bringing these hostages home. I know President Biden will not stop working until every hostage is released and I stand ready to assist him.”