The pictures tell the story. Families reunited, kids running into their parents’ arms, sons embracing their mother. The horrors of October 7 will last a lifetime, but this past weekend provided Israeli families some reprieve as hostages returned home.
Included below my signature are three pictures that encapsulate the past few days in Israel.
The release of 40 Israelis kidnapped by Hamas is of great relief to an entire nation and all those around the world who care about the Jewish state. Yet much more must be done. All of the hostages must be returned home — nearly 200 men, women, children and elderly are still held captive in the darkness beneath Gaza — including 10-month-old baby Kfir Bibas.
Another group of Israelis is supposed to be freed tomorrow, and the Israeli government is reportedly considering extending the pause another day should Hamas release 10 more hostages.
When the pause agreement expires, Israel will continue its military operation to protect its families and destroy Hamas. Today, the prime minister visited troops inside Gaza and reiterated Israel’s three military objectives:
Free all the hostages.
Destroy Hamas' ability to carry out another October 7.
Drive Hamas from power in Gaza.
The war will continue to be difficult. Israel will be accelerating its operation in both Gaza City and further south in the densely populated stronghold of Khan Yunis. Thousands of Hamas terrorists are well-armed and ready for the ensuing fight. These battles will be intense and difficult, and we know the international community will only increase its pressure on the Jewish state.
We must redouble our efforts to ensure Congress and the administration continue to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with Israel.
Please set a calendar reminder for each day this week and spend 10 minutes every day calling offices through the AIPAC Congressional Call Center: www.aipac.org/call.
Tonight, we join Israel in celebrating the return of women and children from the grip of Hamas and we recommit to ensuring America gives Israel the time, resources, and diplomatic support it needs to bring all of its citizens home and win this war.
The mission of AIPAC is to encourage and persuade the U.S. government to enact specific policies that create a strong, enduring and mutually beneficial relationship with our ally Israel.
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