Today, State Senator Saud Anwar (D-South Windsor) released a statement in response to continued violence and reports of blocked humanitarian aid in Gaza. Recent events include bombings that have struck civilian areas, including a hospital and a school, resulting in significant damage, loss of life, and injuries. Reports also indicate restricted humanitarian aid and targeted attacks on peacekeepers in the region.

“As both a state senator and a doctor, I am deeply troubled by reports of the recent bombing of Al-Aqsa Hospital in Gaza, where lives have been lost, including those of patients and refugees. A hospital should always be a safe haven, dedicated to healing and care. Attacks on medical facilities are a profound violation of the principles of humanity that we hold dear. The images of doctors and nurses struggling to save lives amidst such devastation are both heartbreaking and unacceptable.I am also alarmed by reports that, since early October, no humanitarian aid has been allowed into northern Gaza, placing over a million people, including children, at immediate risk of starvation and disease. Denying food, water, and essential medical supplies creates a crisis that demands immediate international attention.

While Israel unquestionably has a right to defend itself, these actions go beyond defense and do not promote safety for the people of Israel or Palestine. We must act with urgency to prevent this conflict from escalating further. It is in the interest of all involved — Israelis, Palestinians, and the entire international community — to avoid a broader regional conflict.

I am also gravely concerned that the current Netanyahu government policies could lead to increased anti-Semitic sentiment worldwide. We must be vigilant and ensure that frustration with the Netanyahu government actions current actions does not spill over into prejudice against Jewish communities and further increase the anti-Semitic emotions.

The proper time for a ceasefire was more than a year ago, when Israel responded to the unacceptable devastation and hostage-taking Hamas wrought on October 7, 2023, with continuous attacks that have killed tens of thousands and forced countless people from their homes. I continue to call for our state and nation to use its power to call for an end to these assaults that continue to kill innocent people and help secure return of all hostages in the region to be back with their loved ones. The United States has a responsibility to ensure that our support does not fuel the escalation of violence to a much broader international conflict and also perpetuate suffering of the innocent people.

The path forward is difficult, but we cannot stand by and allow these events to continue. The United States has the power and responsibility to push for peace, and I will continue to advocate for policies that reflect our commitment to human rights and international law.

Together, we must work toward a future where peace and security are not privileges but rights for all people.”