John — this is a moment of great consequence. Congress just had our first official vote where we can weigh in on the direction of the war in Gaza.
I am proud to be one of the 37 Democrats to vote against supplying more offensive military aid that could result in more killings of civilians in Gaza.
Most Americans do not want our government to write a blank check to further Netanyahu’s war in Gaza. The United States needs to help Israel find a path to win the peace.
That is what our vote was about. Voting to continue supplying offensive military aid only makes Congress complicit in this tragedy.
My vote against H.R. 8034 was a vote against supplying more offensive weapons that could result in more killings of civilians in Rafah and elsewhere. The dozens of Democrats who voted with me all believe strongly in Israel’s right to self-defense and have joined colleagues previously in affirming our shared commitment. We are committed to a sovereign, safe, and secure future for both Israelis and Palestinians.
To protect that future, we believe the United States must help achieve a ceasefire that allows hostages to be freed, humanitarian aid to be delivered, and peace talks to begin.
Netanyahu appears willing to sacrifice the hostages while inflicting extraordinary suffering on the people of Gaza. He is willing to expand this conflict to preserve his power at the expense of Israel’s safety.
In recent weeks, reports have indicated that Netanyahu is moving closer to a full-scale invasion of the southern Gaza town of Rafah, where more than a million Palestinians have taken shelter.
When faced with the question of whether to provide offensive aid to further this conflict, I believe there is a moral imperative to find another path.
If you stand with me, please consider supporting this campaign with a contribution of any amount.
In solidarity,
Pramila Jayapal