BURLINGTON, VT – Senator Peter Welch (D-Vt.) released the following reaction to the passage of a U.N. Security Council Resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza: 

“The U.N. Security Council’s adoption of a resolution calling for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza, the release of all hostages, and access for humanitarian aid is a welcome and long-overdue first step. This resolution could, and should, have gone further in condemning Hamas for its abhorrent attack on October 7. Ultimately, it is an important step forward for the United States to stand up to the Netanyahu government and let the resolution advance. The question now is how quickly and faithfully the resolution will be implemented.  

“The international community was compelled by the horror of the massive civilian casualties to act. Gaza has been reduced to ruins, more than 31,000 are dead, many tens of thousands have been grievously wounded and lack adequate medical care, there is a looming famine, and the Netanyahu government’s unconscionable obstruction of access for trucks carrying food, water and medicines to nearly two million displaced and desperate people have caused a humanitarian catastrophe.   

“It is in the interest of America and Israel’s long-term security that negotiations begin immediately to end this disastrous war. Only when bombs stop falling on Gaza and the hostages are released can efforts begin in earnest to establish a viable, independent Palestinian state alongside the State of Israel—the only solution for lasting peace in the Middle East.”

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