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684 WORDS | 5.3 MINUTE READ
Hi John,
It has been a horrifying week for humankind. The terrorist attack by Hamas in Israel on October 7th is considered by many Israelis to be their own 9/11. Hamas, the Iran-backed terrorist organization, killed over 1,300 Israelis and 27 Americans, including babies in their cribs, children hiding with their parents, and teenagers enjoying a music festival. Another 150 people, including Americans, were kidnapped and are being held hostage in Gaza, including women, children, and the elderly. Hamas terrorists knew that such a disgusting attack would provoke an aggressive response by Israel which would take countless Palestinian lives - including those they use as human shields - and that’s exactly what has transpired.
Let me be clear, any loss of life and bloodshed in this conflict or any other is heartbreaking. But intentionally targeting innocent civilians is beyond the pale, and principled nations around world must unite against Hamas - whose charter calls for the destruction of Israel - recognize Israel’s right to exist, and support Israel’s responsibility to defend its Jewish, Muslim, and Christian citizens.
The Palestinian people deserve self-determination, but Hamas has undermined their own people every step of the way. I’ve long said that there will be no peace until Palestinians forgo terror, recognize Israel, and elevate leaders who seek peace rather than the eradication of their neighbor. Then, and only then, can we expect Israel to come to the table and negotiate the creation of a Palestinian state that lives side by side with Israel in peace, prosperity, and security. I will not rest until that is achieved, and ask that you join me in rejecting terror and promoting peace.
What we can do now: One of my top priorities is making sure that our constituents are safe whether they are home or abroad. My team and I are monitoring the situation in Israel and Gaza closely and are doing everything in our power to make sure Minnesotans return home safely. If you or someone you know needs assistance from the State Department to travel back from Israel or Gaza, please read the information below:
- U.S. citizens seeking to be in touch with the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem, call 1-833-890-9595 or click this link to complete the crisis intake form.
- Latest security alerts and travel advisories can be found by visiting this page.
- While the security situation and staff availability is affecting flights, the Ben Gurion Airport in Israel remains open, click here for flight information.
- If you or someone you know needs support funds for emergency tickets, contact the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.
- If you need additional assistance or have questions, please email or call our office at 952-656-5176.
While the situation in the Middle East is top of mind, I continue to work to restore Americans' faith in government, and I have a story that inspires me to do just that:
The ADINA Act
Without proper labeling, taking medication for a simple illness could have detrimental or even deadly side effects for more than 33 million Americans who live with severe food allergies, intolerances, and celiac disease. That's why, this past summer, I introduced a bipartisan bill called the Allergen Disclosure In Non-Food Articles (ADINA) Act in honor of Adina, an 11-year old from Maple Grove who was sent to the hospital after a reaction to undisclosed ingredients in medicine. This bill aims to set the same standards currently in place for food products by requiring all prescription and over-the-counter medicines to be labelled for major food allergens and gluten-containing grains.
In my estimation, everyone has a right to know what’s going into their body, whether it be medication or food, and it's my hope that Adina's inspiring story gives you hope too. The truth is, Congress can still come together to deliver for the people, and I'm hard at work in Washington doing everything I can to ensure we get back to it.
Keep the faith and keep in touch,
Dean Phillips
Member of Congress
- Donuts with Dean: Welcoming Minnesotans to Washington is one of my favorite parts of this job. We'd love the opportunity share some conversation, and donuts, next time you’re in town! To reserve your spot at an upcoming event, please complete this form, including all attendee information and the date of your preferred session.
- Energy Savings Hub: The U.S. Department of Energy has launched a one-stop shop for American families and consumers to access tools to cut energy costs through rebates and energy efficient upgrades. Click here for a list of green tax credits and other rebates.
- Look before you book: Do you have international travel plans on the horizon? Make sure you are prepared before you book! Visit https://travel.state.gov/ to check your passport expiration date, apply for a passport, and much more.
- The Congressional App Challenge is back: Calling all middle and high school coders - are you innovative, creative, and driven to solve problems? Then the Congressional App Challenge is for you! Registration is open, so head to my website to learn more.
- Order FREE COVID-19 tests: Keep yourself, and those around you, safe by getting tested if you’re feeling sick or have been in close contact with someone who has COVID-19. Order four FREE at-home tests for your family from USPS here.
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