WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement after an agreement between Israel and Hamas to release 50 of the hostages taken during its October 7 terrorist attacks on Israel:
“I am overjoyed to hear that a deal to secure the release of some civilian hostages held by Hamas has been reached. During this holiday week, I give thanks that many who were recently held in captivity will soon be freed and reunited with their families.
“Shortly after the horrific terrorist attacks of October 7, I traveled with a bipartisan group of senators to Israel, where we met the families of Americans held hostage. I cannot begin to describe their anguish; the torment they felt at not knowing whether they would see their loved ones again. I am heartened to know that some of them now have peace of mind and will soon be able to hold their fathers and mothers, their sons and daughters, in their arms again.
“I commend the efforts of all those involved in reaching an agreement after difficult negotiations with Hamas. While this latest hostage release agreement is encouraging, we must not lose sight of the remaining hostages still held against their will in Gaza. I continue to support Israel in its campaign to rid Gaza of the Hamas terrorists and eventually bring a sustainable peace to the region where Israelis and Palestinians can live side by side in safety and dignity.”
Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.