Rep. Cisneros Statement on Trip to Israel

Washington, D.C. – Today, Rep. Gil Cisneros (CA-31) released the following statement on his recent trip to Israel:

“Along with a group of Democratic Members of Congress, I traveled to Israel to demand answers about the status of the situation in Gaza. We met with Israeli and Palestinian government officials about the continuing conflict. We met with the team from the U.N.’s World Food Program and the Gaza Humanitarian Foundation on the status of food distribution. I did not go on this trip to kiss the ring of Prime Minister Netanyahu or undermine the suffering happening in both Israel and Palestine; rather, I went to conduct oversight into what is really happening with aid distribution, dispel misinformation, and ask hard questions of both governments.”

“All human life is precious, and no civilian—Israeli or Palestinian—should be subject to fear, starvation, and violence. On the trip we discussed the shortcomings of the current aid systems.  As it stands, the aid deliveries in Gaza are falling unacceptably short of the humanitarian need. It is the duty of Israel, Palestine, and international partners to ensure that aid trucks make it into Gaza quickly and effectively to prevent civilian suffering.”

“In Congress, I have advocated for a two-state solution that would give both Israelis and Palestinians a safe and permanent home. Both the Israeli and Palestinian people want the war to end and all involved parties must work to return the hostages, agree to a ceasefire, and end the suffering.” 

Rep. Cisneros is a Navy veteran and the former Under Secretary of Defense for Personnel and Readiness. He currently serves on the House Armed Services and Small Business Committees. 

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