Ohio Jewish Caucus Encouraged With Progress of Israel-Hamas Ceasefire, Hostage Release Deal

COLUMBUS — The Ohio Jewish Caucus today issued the following  statement on the news that Israel and Hamas have reached a ceasefire and hostage release deal:

“We are extremely encouraged by the news that Israel and Hamas have agreed to a ceasefire and a deal to release hostages. For the first time since the brutal attacks by Hamas on October 7th, 2023, we feel a sense of hopefulness that this nightmare can soon finally come to an end. There is hope for the people of Israel, the families who will soon welcome their loved ones homes, and the Palestinians who have been suffering through a devastating war. Now more than ever there is a need for an international commitment to help the region move forward, for people to rebuild their lives, and to provide continued aid to millions of men, women, and children who desperately need it,” said the Ohio Jewish Caucus. “We want to thank President Biden and his administration for working tirelessly to find this diplomatic solution that will now allow the healing process for countless people around the world to begin.”

This deal, still not publicly announced, will include a six-week ceasefire with the gradual withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza, and the release of hostages held by Hamas in exchange for Palestinian detainees held by Israel.

The agreement is expected to unfold in three phases and take effect in two or three days.