Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Rosa L. DeLauro (Conn. -3) issued the following statement on her vote in support of House Resolution 34 recognizing Israel’s right to defend itself against attacks from Gaza, reaffirming the United States’ strong support for Israel, and supporting the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

“Israel, like every other nation, has the right, and in fact duty, to defend its citizens. Israel’s actions come in response to years of indiscriminate firing of thousands of rockets aimed at its citizens from Hamas-controlled Gaza and the recent escalation by Hamas destroying the cease-fire.

“I am deeply concerned about the welfare of the innocent civilians on both sides caught in the middle of this conflict and morn all loss of life. I believe it is imperative that both sides take further steps to avoid civilian casualties and to facilitate the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

“Meanwhile the United States should work to put in place a durable and sustainable cease-fire that prevents Hamas from attacking Israel and creates an environment in which there is improvement in the daily lives and future outlook of the Palestinians in Gaza.

“Ultimately, peace will only come if the United States fully engages in strong diplomacy as an honest broker with the Israelis, Palestinians and leaders throughout the region with the goal of creating an independent and viable Palestinian state living side-by-side in peace with a secure Israel.”