Senator Chris Coons, a Democrat representing Delaware, has expressed support for a potential agreement to secure the release of hostages held by Hamas just before Thanksgiving.
However, he firmly rejects calls for a cease-fire in Gaza. Coons, who is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, pointed out the distinction between a cease-fire and humanitarian pauses.
He emphasized the importance of negotiating a brief pause in the fighting to ensure the release of hostages and the delivery of essential supplies to Gaza. Coons clarified that he does not support an end to Israel’s campaign against Hamas.
Coons considers the news of a potential hostage deal as a positive development for the American families who have loved ones in captivity, as well as for the many others affected by this crisis. He has personally met with these families in Tel Aviv and Washington, empathizing with their heartbreaking situation.

Reports from The Washington Post indicate that the United States, Israel, and Hamas have tentatively agreed to release an initial batch of 50 or more hostages in smaller groups over a 24-hour period. The release may commence within the next few days.
In an op-ed published in The Post, President Biden assured readers that his administration is tirelessly working to secure the release of the hostages. He acknowledged the tragic loss of innocent Palestinian lives and stressed that Gaza should not be a breeding ground for terrorism.
Biden argued that a cease-fire alone would not bring about peace while Hamas remains committed to destruction. He warned against allowing Hamas to regain control of Gaza, which would perpetuate hatred and deny Palestinians the opportunity to build a better future.
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The United States is actively supporting Israel’s offensive in Gaza by providing weapons and intelligence. The goal of this operation is to dismantle Hamas following the October 7 attack that claimed over 1,200 lives.
Biden has maintained regular communication with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and has made the release of American hostages held by Hamas a top priority.
While demonstrators across the country have been demanding a cease-fire in Gaza, occasionally clashing with law enforcement, Coons himself has faced pressure from activists urging him to support a cease-fire agreement. Despite these calls, Coons stands firm in his position and continues to advocate for a negotiated resolution to the hostage crisis.
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