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Action Center

Urge Congress to Prioritize Release of the Hostages Held in Gaza
On July 24, Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is scheduled to address a joint session of Congress. The speech – his first to Congress since 2015 – comes as over 100 hostages taken by Hamas on October 7th remain captive in Gaza. American support and leadership toward securing the release of all hostages is vital.   Members of Congress must heed the voices of the hostages’ family members who believe that a new, negotiated ceasefire is the most effective way for those still held to be freed.   

Every second counts in securing the hostages’ safe return. Reports from hostages released and rescued revealed that those in captivity suffer deplorable conditions, including sexual and physical violence, psychological torture, and near-starvation. In clear contravention of international law, Hamas has not allowed any international aid organizations to access the hostages to check on their health or provide necessary medicines or medical assistance.

As Jews, we are taught the sacred mitzvah of Pidyon Shvu’im, the redemption of captives. Over nine months into this war, we renew our demand for the release of all hostages still held in Gaza and call on Congress to support a new, negotiated ceasefire, as outlined by President Biden last month, as the most effective way for those still held to be freed. 

For more information, please contact RAC Legislative Assistant Ellen Garfinkle at egarfinkle@rac.org.  

 

 

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