Washington, D.C. – U.S. Senator Susan Collins issued the following statement regarding the ceasefire and hostage agreement reached between Israel and Hamas:
“Today’s ceasefire and hostage agreement is a welcome announcement. It’s been fifteen long months since Iranian-backed terrorists launched their brutal attack on Israel and kidnapped more than 240 innocent hostages. I went to Israel three weeks after the Hamas massacre, and will never forget seeing firsthand the devastation Hamas terrorists wreaked on Israeli families and communities.
“While there is much about the agreement and the future that we do not yet know, what we do know is that the tragedy of October 7 can never be allowed to occur again.
“As we honor the innocent lives lost and await the safe return of those still held captive by Hamas, let us keep the hostages, their family and friends in our hearts and minds, and continue to stand with our treasured ally Israel as the nation navigates this new reality.”
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