Collins, Bipartisan Group of Senators Hold Press Conference with American and Israeli Families of Kidnapped Hamas Hostages

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Washington, D.C – Yesterday, U.S. Senators Susan Collins, Ben Cardin (D-MD), Chuck Schumer (D-NY), Jim Risch (R-ID), Pete Ricketts (R-NE), Joni Ernst (R-IA), and Kirsten Gillibrand (D-NY) held a press conference with American and Israeli families of hostages abducted by Hamas terrorists. During the press conference, Senators discussed the urgent need for continued U.S. efforts to help bring home their loved ones after more than 100 days in captivity following the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

“103 days of unbearable pain, anguish, and so much uncertainty for the family members here today,” said Senator Collins. “I want to thank the extraordinary, courageous family members who are here to share their personal stories. My message to the family members is this: we have not forgotten you. We will continue to work for the release of your loved ones. We will stand in steadfast support of you as you seek to bring your hostage family members home.”

Last October, Senator Collins and a bipartisan group of five Republican and five Democratic Senators travelled to the Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Egypt following Hamas’ attack on Israel. During this trip, Senator Collins met with Israeli officials and families impacted by the attack, and expressed strong support for U.S. aid to Israel in the wake of the terrorist attack, which was the largest loss of Jewish life in a single day since the Holocaust.

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