KEATING STATEMENT ON CEASEFIRE DEAL BETWEEN ISRAEL AND HAMAS

Washington, DC – Today Congressman Bill Keating (MA-09) issued the following statement following the announcement of an agreement between Israel and Hamas for a ceasefire and the return of hostages:

“Today’s announcement of a long overdue ceasefire and hostage deal with Israel and Hamas marks a major turning point in what has been a nightmare for many families, including Americans, and the people of the region.

Hamas's brutal terrorist attack on October 7th followed by fifteen months of intense war has led to thousands of deaths and overwhelming destruction in Gaza. This deal, brought on by months of tireless diplomacy from the Biden administration as well as allies and partners in the region, would halt the fighting in Gaza, reunite hostages with families, and greatly increase humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians.

While remaining hopeful, as a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs and Armed Services Committees, I will be watching closely as this complicated deal moves forward into the implementation phase. I strongly urge the incoming Trump administration to see this deal through and encourage all the actors in the region to adhere to its commitments.”