More than 20 former U.S. Ambassadors Urge Congress to Condemn Hamas terrorist Attack on Israel

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, 21 former United States Ambassadors, working alongside the America First Policy Institute’s Ambassador Initiative Program, sent a signed letter to congressional leadership to formally condemn the terrorist organization Hamas. The letter also urges Congress to provide aid and support to Israel during these unprecedented and horrific attacks on their nation.

Signatories of this letter include, but are not limited to: David Friedman, former U.S. Ambassador to Israel; Kay Bailey Hutchinson, former U.S. Ambassador to NATO; Jamie McCourt, former U.S. Ambassador to France and Monaco; Callista Gingrich, former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See; Ken Blackwell, former U.S. Ambassador to the UN Human Rights Commission and many others.

“We, the undersigned group of United States Ambassadors, write to you today with a sense of urgency and deep concern regarding the ongoing and unprovoked attacks on the State of Israel by Hamas, a designated terrorist organization. As diplomats who have witnessed first-hand the strong relationship between our two nations, we implore the United States Congress to provide unwavering support to Israel during this challenging time. Israel, the Middle East's only true democracy, has long been a steadfast ally of the United States. The bond between our two nations is based on shared democratic values, human rights, and a commitment to regional stability. It is crucial that we stand firmly together against those who seek to undermine these shared values.

. . .

“Israeli civilians must not endure this violence alone, and it is within the power of the United States Congress to demonstrate unwavering solidarity. We, the undersigned group of United States Ambassadors, urge you to:

 1) Support the immediate and unconditional cessation of Hamas terrorism and violence.

2) Reinforce U.S. economic, diplomatic, and military aid to Israel, strengthening its ability to defend itself against these terrorist attacks.

3) Urge the international community to hold Hamas accountable for its actions, including its use of civilians as human shields.

4) Demand U.S. support for Israel in its efforts to eradicate Hamas and continue to provide significant deterrence against Hezbollah from entering the war.

 5) Advocate for all states and parties to recognize Israel’s right to exist and secure internationally recognized borders.

6) Oppose any attempts to undermine the strong U.S.-Israel relationship and counter attempts to delegitimize Israel’s right to self-defense.

7) Demand unequivocal bipartisan support from Congress and the President for Israel at this desperate time.”

Read the full signed letter and see the full list of signatories here.

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