Washington, DC - The Friends Committee on National Legislation (FCNL) condemned the attack by Hamas on Israel and Israel’s retaliatory violence while calling on world leaders to press for de-escalation and restraint in Gaza and southern Israel moving forward. FCNL also reminded policymakers that violence committed by Hamas does not justify the collective punishment of nearly two million Palestinian civilians living in Gaza.
Contact Tim McHugh: media@fcnl.org, 202-903-2515
“As Quakers, we deeply mourn the loss of all lives and pray for those who have lost loved ones due to this latest escalation,” said Bridget Moix, FCNL’s general secretary. “We firmly condemn all violence against civilians and urge the U.S. government and global leaders to prioritize an immediate ceasefire, de-escalation and restraint to prevent further civilian harm.”
These tragic events, including the deaths of hundreds of Israeli and Palestinian civilians and the taking of dozens of Israeli prisoners, underscore the pressing need to ensure self-determination, equality, and fundamental human rights for Israelis and Palestinians alike. Authentic security is attainable through the promotion of a culture of peace, including a healthy environment, economic opportunity, democratic participation, access to education, and personal well-being.
“True peace can only be achieved through peaceful means,” said Hassan El-Tayyab, FCNL’s legislative director for Middle East policy. “These terrible attacks and violent response increase our resolve to protect innocent life and advocate for an end to all forms of injustice in Israel and the occupied Palestinian territories. Policymakers in the United States must refrain from further militarizing this conflict and work to ensure that our military assistance is never used to violate Palestinian human rights. Only by addressing core systemic issues, including decades of institutionalized oppression and collective punishment of Palestinians through brutal military occupation and a 16-year Gaza blockade, will Israelis and Palestinians live in peace.”
To learn more, please visit www.fcnl.org.
###
