Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett addresses the ongoing crisis in Israel and the Gaza region, emphasizing the imperative need for additional humanitarian relief to Palestinians following the White House request to Congress for $9.15 billion in supplemental U.S. humanitarian assistance for Ukraine, Israel, Gaza and other needs. The Congresswoman has been a passionate advocate for a more comprehensive approach that acknowledges the humanitarian concerns of both Palestinians and Israelis in the region.
The White House has taken commendable steps to alleviate the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza by securing a deal with Israel that allows for the delivery of humanitarian aid from Egypt. Additionally, they have pledged $100 million in new U.S. funding to support humanitarian efforts in Gaza and the West Bank. However, Congresswoman Plaskett stresses that significantly more U.S. funding will be required to fully address the complex needs in the region.
“In this time of crisis, we must prioritize humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians living in Gaza and the West Bank along with their Israeli neighbors. The White House’s commitment to the region is a step in the right direction, but we should be prepared to provide substantial assistance to address the suffering of the Palestinian people during this conflict,” said Plaskett.
As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, Congresswoman Plaskett has used her position to advocate for comprehensive humanitarian solutions. She has been steadfast in her efforts, pressing U.S. officials to address humanitarian concerns not only in Gaza but also in the West Bank. On multiple trips to the region, Plaskett has shared with congressional colleagues, the Biden administration, and especially the Intelligence community her concerns with certain Israeli rhetoric and policies which have led to settlers’ aggression into Palestinian areas of the West Bank. The congresswoman has stressed the deep concern and, in some cases, anger felt by American lawmakers over the situation.
In Capitol Hill meetings, Plaskett has discussed not only the present situation but the next steps for peace and equality for all in the region. It is essential that Congress carefully consider the White House supplemental foreign aid request and sufficiently address these humanitarian issues to promote lasting peace and stability in the region.
Furthermore, Congresswoman Plaskett has chosen not to sign on to several House resolutions introduced in Congress recently (including H.Res.768, H.Res.770, and H.Res.771), even though they collectively have garnered substantial support from fellow members of the House of Representatives, because they do not go far enough in providing comprehensive support for all the people, particularly Palestinians, living in the region. Her stance emphasizes the importance of balancing the fight against terrorism, preserving the welfare of Palestinians and Israelis alike, and working towards a peaceful coexistence of all peoples in the region.
In the coming weeks, Congresswoman Plaskett will continue her advocacy efforts, pushing for substantial humanitarian aid inclusive of Palestinians, and will be closely reviewing the White House’s request to Congress. Her dedication to addressing the humanitarian crisis in Israel and Gaza, as well as true movement in creating equality and two states, reflects a commitment to finding a just and sustainable solution to the ongoing conflict.
