Congressman Maxwell Frost Statement on H.R. 8034
WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, Congressman Maxwell Alejandro Frost (FL-10) released a statement on H.R. 8034, the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act.
In a statement, Rep. Frost says:
“Today, the House will vote on legislation that falls short of what we need to bring an end to Netanyahu’s seemingly endless war in Gaza that has claimed the lives of countless innocent Palestinian civilians and brought us no closer to the return of innocent Israeli hostages being held by Hamas – I will vote ‘no.’
“The safety and security of Israel and its people is extremely important, and I continue to support a well-funded defense apparatus like Iron Dome, Iron Beam, and David’s Sling.
“But without sufficient assurances that Netanyahu will use the resources provided in this package in alignment with international law, will not invade Rafah, will do more to facilitate humanitarian aid, and will listen to President Biden’s calls for de-escalation – today, I am only able to justify aid for defense, not offense, and this legislation did not allow me to separate the two.
“I cannot in good conscience support a bill that will send offensive aid to support Netanyahu’s war at a time where over a million people are on the brink of famine, the hostages remain in danger, and tens of thousands of innocent civilians have been killed, while there has been no indication that a change in course is near.
“This moment calls for strong leadership from the United States, where we set a path toward a two-state solution, which is the way to bring peace in the region for all. I fear that our support of offensive aid today greenlights further escalations in the region and the continued massive loss of innocent Palestinian life.”
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