McCollum Statement for the Congressional Record in Support of Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Hamas Terrorist Attacks

Ms. McCollum: Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the bipartisan resolution condemning the outrageous Hamas terrorist attacks that have resulted in the senseless deaths of Israelis, Palestinians, and more than 20 American citizens. Hundreds are missing and many are feared to be held hostage – including women, children, and even infants.

Savagely attacking and killing innocent civilians is never justified. These crimes must be unequivocally condemned as they are clear violations of international human rights law.

Hamas has a singular goal: to destroy Israel. These attacks were not targeting the military or government; they were perpetrated against Israeli communities for the goal of destruction. Hamas uses fear, terror, and intimidation against Israelis and it uses the same tactics against the Palestinian people, putting targets on the backs of innocent people in Gaza. Nearly half of the population of Gaza are children – most having lived their entire lives under a brutal, devastating blockade that deprives them of basic human necessities and no prospect for a better future.

I have a solemn responsibility as a Member of Congress to shape policy. I have spoken out against governments, extremist groups, those exerting power over marginalized populations – whether they are our enemies, our allies, or within our own nation – and I always speak up for those suffering and in defense of human rights. The October 7 attack by Hamas was a gross violation of human rights. It crossed a red line.

This was a strategic, coordinated, multi-modal attack by Hamas. It leaves deeply concerning questions about what happened in the lead-up to this massacre and what the future holds. Any response must consider the innocent lives at stake. The United States must not choose to escalate conflict with a knee-jerk reaction of providing more weapons for an offensive that will certainly take the lives of more innocent civilians and children. The reports of casualties in Israel and Palestine are stunning, and I fear these numbers will only grow in the coming days.

This attack is not a far-away matter; it is hitting close to home. Mothers, fathers, the young, and the elderly – those near and far – are now living in unimaginable fear while mourning those they have lost. I am hearing from many Jewish constituents and community leaders who are in pain and who have loved ones among the injured, killed, or missing. I stand with them, I mourn with them, and I share their fear of what is to come.

My hope and my dream for the future is for every Israeli child and every Palestinian child to be tucked into bed at night by their parents without fear of bombings and perpetual violence. All people deserve safety and security – and in the wake of this heinous attack, the international community is in agreement that Hamas must be stopped. The only sustainable path forward is one where international human rights and international law are at the forefront and democratic ideals are upheld.

Thank you, and I yield back.