WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Representative Chrissy Houlahan (D-PA) issued the following statement:

"I am outraged and heartbroken by the deaths of more than 30,000 people in Israel and Gaza since Hamas' attack on October 7 and was shocked to read about the Israeli airstrike in Gaza that claimed the lives of seven aid workers from the World Central Kitchen. My heart is with the families and loved ones of those who were killed in this senseless act of violence; indeed, my heart remains with each and every family and loved one who has been affected since October 7. 

Prime Minister Netanyahu's characterization of this tragedy as 'unintentional' is wholly inadequate and calls into question his ability and willingness to hold his military leadership accountable and prevent additional escalation. The fact that these individuals were operating in a 'deconflicted zone' and had coordinated their movements with the Israeli military makes this incident even more shocking. A thorough and transparent investigation must be conducted to understand the circumstances surrounding this incident and ensure accountability for those responsible. The Israel Defense Forces can and must do better. And we, as allies, can and should demand this.

This recent tragedy does not change what has been clear for decades – Hamas is a heinous terrorist organization that has no role in a future Palestinian state. Hamas must immediately release all remaining hostages and cease attacks on civilian populations. This cycle of violence and suffering must end, which is why I'm also renewing my call for a negotiated and sustainable ceasefire. The famine in Gaza makes the need for this ceasefire all the more immediate and acute. We must remember that the aid workers who were killed were providing the people of the region with much needed food and water.

I join the families of the victims in mourning their loss and reaffirm my commitment to advocating for peace, justice, and accountability in the Middle East."

Houlahan is an Air Force veteran, an engineer, a serial entrepreneur, an educator, and a nonprofit leader. She represents Pennsylvania’s 6th Congressional District, which encompasses Chester County and southern Berks County. She serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence. She is the recipient of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Abraham Lincoln Leadership for America Award which “recognizes members who demonstrate the bipartisan leadership and constructive governing necessary to move our country forward” and the Congressional Management Foundation’s 2022 Democracy Award for best Constituent Services in Congress.

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