Alaska’s congressional delegation has voiced its support of Israel in the wake of a surprise attack by Hamas, an Islamist militant movement, that stunned Israel and left at least 1,000 people dead on both Israeli and Palestinian sides. At least 150 Israelis being held as hostages by Hamas.
Several thousand more Israelis and Palestinians are wounded, some critically.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant has ordered a complete siege of the long-blockaded Gaza Strip. Hamas meanwhile has threatened to execute a civilian hostage every time an airstrike hits Palestinians in Gaza “in their homes without warning,” the New York Times reported on Monday.
“My heart is heavy for Israel, the families of those who have lost their loved ones, and the hundreds more wounded and reportedly taken hostage in these senseless attacks,” said Sen. Lisa Murkowski, R-Alaska, “I condemn Hamas’ terrorist actions on innocent civilians and call on the international community to join the United States in offering aid to Israel and unequivocally supporting Israel’s right to defend themselves from these atrocities. The Biden administration must reverse its failed policy of appeasement with Iran, and any other regime that would sponsor or support the terror group Hamas.”
Sen. Dan Sullivan, R-Alaska, said that “America stands with the people of Israel, our greatest ally in the Middle East, as they repel a widespread assault launched by Hamas terrorists today at the conclusion of the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. This disgraceful attack involved the indiscriminate barrage of thousands of rockets against cities and towns across Israel, and reportedly, the murder and hostage taking of many innocent civilians.”
“Israel has a right to defend itself and its existence against any terrorist group or its backers, including the largest state sponsor of terrorism—Iran,” Sullivan said. “We must support this right of our close ally during this horrendous attack on innocent Israelis. The terrorist regime in Iran must know that the United States is watching its actions very closely.”
“This is a horrific day for the people of Israel and everyone who hopes for peace,” said Rep. Mary Peltola, D-Alaska, said in her statement on social media. “I stand firmly with Israel and its right to defend against these appalling attacks on civilians.”
“This shocking violence achieves nothing but creating more fear, anger, and loss. My heart is with all the victims and their families, and I am praying for a swift end to the fighting,” she said.
