Congresswoman Ramirez Statement on Agreed Ceasefire Deal in Gaza
Washington, DC — Today, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), the Vice Ranking Member of the 118th Homeland Security Committee, released the following statement:
“This week, millions found hope in the promise of a ceasefire agreement. Since I co-introduced the resolution calling for a ceasefire, I have longed for the end to the bombings in Gaza, the safe return for hostages and prisoners, the consistent delivery of humanitarian aid, and a pathway to safety and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. While I am relieved the agreement has been ratified, I mourn the lives lost, grieve with families, and lament the destruction we have witnessed the last 1 year, 3 months and 9 days.
Our commitment to peace and safety can't end with the announcement of a ceasefire agreement. We must recognize the preciousness of peace and continue to demand that the deal holds and is honored - from Netanyahu to Hamas to the incoming Trump administration. It is fitting that we be reminded today that true peace isn’t just the absence of violence, but the presence of justice. We must continue to address the systemic causes of violence, instability, and uncertainty in the region. We must affirm Israelis and Palestinians a self-determined future, free of systems of occupation, apartheid, and extremism.
To all the advocates, pursuers of peace, diplomats, and courageous dissenting voices from Congress to the Department of State to college campuses: thank you for leading us in this fight for peace, freedom, safety, and dignity for all. The world we envision is possible.”