Congressman Robert Garcia Statement on Ceasefire Agreement Between Israel and Hamas

Washington, D.C. – Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) released the following statement regarding the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

“The ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas is a hopeful and important step forward to bringing home the hostages, ending the brutal devastation in Gaza, and saving Palestinian and Israeli lives.

“I applaud President Biden and all our allies and partners for their work to reach this agreement. I have called for a ceasefire and a full release of the hostages for over a year.

“This is a critical moment for the families of the hostages and for the Palestinian people, who have suffered unimaginable loss. This must be a lasting ceasefire.

“We must now work to build a lasting peace and commit to the reconstruction of Gaza. Palestinian and Israeli lives have the same value, and the Palestinian people deserve an independent state free of Hamas.”