Nearly 50 Democratic members of the United States Congress have urged President Donald Trump to take action regarding ceasefire violations in Gaza. They have called for the administration to consider withholding U.S. assistance if the violence continues. The lawmakers highlighted Israel’s actions, including “bombardment against civilians, destruction of property, and insufficient delivery of humanitarian aid,” as factors jeopardizing the ceasefire brokered in October 2023 by the U.S., Egypt, and Qatar.
In a letter addressed to President Trump, the 49 members of the House of Representatives emphasized the need for accountability from the Israeli government. They stated, “We strongly urge your administration to exert maximum diplomatic pressure on the Israeli government, including by leveraging U.S. assistance, to ensure full compliance with the terms of the framework and an end to the continued acts of violence and destruction that undermine this fragile agreement and threaten the prospect of lasting peace in the region.”
The lawmakers acknowledged that both Israel and Hamas have violated the ceasefire, but asserted that Israel’s response has been “severe and disproportionate, resulting in massive loss of life.” The letter, spearheaded by Representatives Mark Pocan and Madeleine Dean, received support from several Jewish advocacy groups, including J Street, the New Jewish Narrative, and Win Without War.
In recent weeks, Israel has intensified its military operations in Gaza. According to reports, the Israeli military has killed over 411 individuals and left more than 1,112 wounded since the ceasefire agreement was established. The Government Media Office in Gaza has documented at least 875 violations committed by the Israeli army since the ceasefire began.
Despite the ongoing violence, Israel has also failed to meet its obligations regarding the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Out of a stipulated 43,800 trucks designated for distribution to a population of approximately two million, only 17,819 trucks have actually entered the blockaded territory. This has led to a severe shortage of essential supplies, including adequate shelter, medicine, food, and fuel.
The humanitarian situation in Gaza has become increasingly dire. The media office has reported a “deepening and unprecedented humanitarian crisis,” exacerbated by the lack of shelter during freezing temperatures and heavy rainfall.
As the situation continues to evolve, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is scheduled to meet with President Trump next week in Florida. The discussions may address these pressing issues as the international community remains concerned about the ongoing conflict and its implications for regional stability.
