Gov. Larry Hogan

“Today, I spoke with Israeli Ambassador Gilad Erdan and expressed Maryland’s steadfast commitment to Israel’s security, and right to defend itself against Hamas attacks. We continue to pray for an end to the bloodshed.”
Sen. Benjamin L. Cardin (D-Md.)
“Israeli and Palestinian political and military leaders must actively discourage any actions that provoke more violence, and the Israel Police must take steps to lower tensions throughout Jerusalem. Unilateral actions by any party that take us further away from the prospect of a durable peace through direct negotiations must cease. We applaud the decision of the Supreme Court to delay the hearing regarding potential eviction of Palestinian families in Sheikh Jarrah and Silwan neighborhoods of Jerusalem.

“We are committed to sustaining a U.S.-Israel relationship based on shared democratic values and our vital security partnership. We are also committed to continuing to engage Israelis and Palestinians to find ways to live together with peace, freedom, security and dignity; and achieve a two-state solution, as the Biden administration has set out to do following decades of consistent US policy. A sustainable peace that ensures the long-term security of Israel and self-determination for Palestinians is the only viable outcome for the region.
“As supporters of last year’s Abraham Accords as a way to cement Israel’s permanent place in the region and halt unilateral annexation, we call on all responsible parties to take steps to de-escalate and find ways back to negotiations.”
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.)
“Hamas’s actions only serve to undermine the pursuit of the legitimate aspirations of the Palestinian people. Both Israelis and Palestinians have a right to live in security, a right to self-determination, and a right to have their human rights protected.

“Sadly, we have seen this violent cycle too many times before, and we know it does not resolve the grievances of any side. It only leaves death and destruction in its wake. No parent wants to raise a child in a generation under fire that believes peace is not possible, views a neighbor as an enemy or a threat, or feels their basic humanity is in question. We must all be focused on actions that show the way out of this darkness.
“The United States and its allies need to work with the parties to end the immediate violence and help create a path toward a future where both Israelis and Palestinians can live in peace and dignity. I have spoken with U.S. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan and others in the Biden Administration about the importance of working to advance these goals.”
House Majority Leader Rep. Steny H. Hoyer (D-5th)
“America stands by our ally Israel because we understand what the Jewish state represents: the striving of a people long denied freedom and self-determination to build a future in their ancient homeland based on democracy, justice, and peace. Our relationship continues to be based in common ideals and common purpose.

“The unjustifiable attacks by Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad continue to jeopardize Israeli and Palestinian lives and hinder efforts for peace on all sides. Peace cannot be achieved while terrorist groups continue to undermine the legitimate interests of the Palestinian people.
“The deaths of so many innocents on both sides makes a resolution to this conflict all the more necessary and urgent. I mourn the deaths of innocent civilians on both sides, and I call on all parties to take steps toward restoring calm.”
Rep. Andy Harris (R-1st)
“I stand with Israel and support their right to defend themselves. President Biden’s weak leadership and soft attitude toward Iran are only emboldening the terrorists hellbent on wiping Israel off the map.”
Rep. Anthony G. Brown (D-4th)
“I am deeply concerned with the escalating conflict and loss of life in Jerusalem, in Israel and in the Palestinian territories. Hamas’ indiscriminate rocket fire directed toward civilian centers is terrorism, must be condemned and cannot be tolerated. Israel has a right to defend itself against such attacks. Attacks on civilian populations are unacceptable. We must continue to work toward lasting peace and security for all who live in the region.”
Rep. Kweisi Mfume (D-7th)

“The lethal violence in Israel, Jerusalem and the Palestinian territories has killed and wounded innocent people, including children. Hamas must stop its indiscriminate rocket attacks. The United States and its allies must work with both parties to end the immediate violence if there is to be sustained peace in the region and a two-state solution.”
Rep. Jamie Raskin (D-8th)
“The outbreak of brutal violence in Israel and Gaza has killed dozens of Israeli and Palestinian civilians, including at least 16 children, and wounded hundreds more. That fact compels an immediate ceasefire to save human life and prospects for peace.

“Hamas must stop its indiscriminate rocket attacks on the people of Israel now. Like all sovereign states, Israel has a right to defend itself and is bound by international law and humanitarian law to actively protect civilians from harm in doing so.”
Rep. C.A. Dutch Ruppersberger (D-2nd)
“Our ally, Israel, has an absolute right to protect itself from Hamas’ indefensible terrorist attacks, which threaten the lives of innocent civilians — Israelis and Palestinians alike.
As long as Hamas continues to undermine the Palestinian people’s legitimate interests with a barrage of rockets, there will be little hope for peace in this region. Already 55 people have died in the recent violence, including children and teenagers. There must be an immediate cease-fire before any more lives are lost. After decades of conflict in this area, there is no silver bullet. Both parties must show restraint in the short-term to advance the long-term goal of lasting peace in a two-state solution.”
Rep. John Sarbanes (D-3rd)

“The escalation of violence in Jerusalem and the reckless and indiscriminate rocket attacks by Hamas – which have targeted innocent civilians – must end. Israel has every right to defend its citizens against this onslaught.”
Rep. David Trone (D-6th)
“Violence is never the solution. I have a constituent listening to the Iron Dome sirens as we speak as rockets from Gaza rain down on Israel. Everyone must clearly condemn these attacks and support the right of self-defense.”
