This resolution condemns the October 7th Hamas terrorist attack, affirms Israel's right to self-defense, and supports an outcome ensuring Israel's survival, the elimination of Hamas, and the release of all hostages.
Joni Ernst
Senator
IA
This resolution formally condemns the brutal Hamas-led terrorist attack on Israel of October 7, 2023, and supports Israel's right to self-defense. It further condemns antisemitic and destructive protests within the United States. Ultimately, the resolution calls for an outcome that ensures Israel's survival, eliminates Hamas's ability to operate, and secures the release of all remaining hostages.
Senate Resolution Condemns Hamas Attack and Domestic Antisemitic Protests, Backs Israel's 'Forever Survival'
This Senate Resolution isn't creating new laws or setting budgets; it's Congress using its voice to formally state its position on the conflict involving Hamas and Israel. Think of it as a clear, official declaration of where the U.S. Senate stands following the October 7, 2023, attacks. It's a statement of intent that will guide how the Senate thinks about and votes on related foreign aid and policy moving forward.
The Official Stance on Hamas and Israel
The core of the resolution is a strong condemnation of the Iran-backed Hamas terror group. It specifically calls out the brutal attacks on October 7, noting that Hamas killed about 1,200 people, including 40 U.S. citizens, and took 251 hostages. The resolution affirms Israel's inherent right to defend itself against these acts of terror, which is a standard position the U.S. takes toward its allies. It also condemns specific atrocities committed by Hamas, including the use of rape as a weapon of war and the torture and murder of captives. This isn't just political rhetoric; it's a formal acknowledgment of war crimes, which sets a baseline for future international diplomatic action.
Defining the End Goal: Survival and Security
This resolution lays out the Senate's desired outcome for any peace efforts or cease-fire negotiations in the Gaza Strip. The Senate supports an end to the conflict that achieves three non-negotiable goals. First, it must guarantee the "forever survival of Israel." Second, it requires the "complete denial of Hamas's ability to reconstitute" in the region. Third, it demands the release of all remaining hostages, specifically naming U.S. citizens Omer Neutra and Itay Chen. For the average person, this signals that the Senate views the destruction of Hamas's military and governing capacity as a prerequisite for peace, which suggests continued support for Israel's military operations until that goal is met.
The Unexpected Inclusion: Condemning Domestic Protests
One of the less common elements of a foreign policy resolution is the section addressing domestic protests here in the United States. The Senate is formally condemning protests that have been "destructive and antisemitic." This includes actions like property damage, the tearing down and burning of American flags, and threats made against the safety of Jewish Americans. While condemning illegal acts like property damage and threats is uncontroversial, including this in a resolution about a foreign conflict is a clear political message. For those involved in political expression, this signals that Congress is paying attention to the nature of these demonstrations and is willing to formally condemn activities it deems destructive or threatening, potentially influencing how local law enforcement and universities handle future protests.