WASHINGTON — A group of Republican senators is commemorating the second anniversary of the October 7, 2023, Hamas assault on Israel by introducing a resolution that denounces the terror organization for causing widespread devastation.
This resolution not only condemns Hamas but also reaffirms the Senate’s commitment to an “outcome that guarantees the perpetual survival of Israel” and demands the release of all hostages.
“On this day two years ago, I woke up in the Middle East to the horrifying news that Israel was under siege from Iran-backed Hamas and that Americans had been killed and abducted,” stated Sen. Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), who spearheaded the resolution, to The Post.
“With President Trump restoring American leadership globally, I have renewed hope and will persist in backing his peace-through-strength approach to ensure that another October 7 never occurs again.”
The resolution has the support of 38 Republican senators, along with Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.), who has been a vocal advocate for Israel despite facing backlash from the progressive wing.
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The surprise Hamas attack left Israelis astounded, resulting in approximately 1,200 fatalities and more than 250 individuals taken hostage.
Two years on, Hamas is believed to still be holding 48 hostages, with about 20 likely alive, including two American citizens.
Trump has been actively working toward peace after proposing a 20-point plan last week that has been accepted by Israel.
In response to a Sunday deadline set for 6 p.m. ET, Hamas indicated a willingness to free the remaining hostages, and Trump mentioned over the weekend that “very positive discussions” have occurred with the militant group.
The president elaborated that he expects the “first phase” of technical negotiations to be finalized this week, with meetings ongoing in Egypt to discuss hostage release.
The support from GOP for this resolution emphasizes that “Israel, like any sovereign nation, has the right to self-defense” and advocates for the complete dismantling of “Hamas’s capacity to reinstate any leadership role in the region.”
Indirect negotiations have taken place between Hamas and Israel through Qatari and Egyptian intermediaries as part of efforts to establish peace.
“I genuinely believe we are on the verge of reaching an agreement,” Trump told reporters on Monday. “There’s a strong likelihood we can secure a deal, and it will be a lasting one.”
