Schumer Statement On Secretary Blinken 4th Visit To Israel Since October 7 Attack

"Secretary Blinken’s fourth visit to Israel since the attacks of October 7 demonstrates the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship as Israel reaches a milestone in the effort to dramatically reduce the threat of Hamas and our commitment to doing everything we can to bring the hostages home. I welcome Israel’s intended withdrawal of select forces in northern Gaza, and a new, more targeted phase of operations in the North. As the operations continue to ensure Hamas can never again repeat the attacks of October 7th, Israel must intensify its efforts to protect innocent Palestinian lives, and to maximize the entry and delivery of desperately needed humanitarian assistance.

"The message from Secretary Blinken echoes my long-held belief that a long-term peace in the region requires a two-state solution with Israel and a Palestinian state co-existing side-by-side both with security, peace, prosperity, and dignity. I welcome Secretary Blinken's productive conversations with Israeli leaders on several key elements to preserve the path for a two-state solution including the United States' position that Palestinians must not be displaced from the Gaza strip, which Israel has publicly committed to already.

"I will continue to push both the U.S. and Israeli governments to do everything possible to help bring the hostages home and to move closer to achieving lasting peace through a two-state solution."