Washington, DC — Today, Representative Gregory W. Meeks, Ranking Member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, released the following statement regarding the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hezbollah today.  

“I welcome the announcement that a ceasefire between Israel and Hezbollah has been reached and commend the Biden Administration for its leadership in securing this agreement.  

“It is critical that both parties fully adhere to the terms of the ceasefire so that a durable peace can be realized on the Israeli-Lebanese border. I know the Lebanese Armed Forces will play an important role in ensuring the success of this agreement. With hostilities now at an end, tens of thousands of Israelis and Lebanese can finally return home to rebuild their lives.  

Today’s announcement proves that difficult things can be done. Now is the time to re-intensify efforts to immediately end the war in Gaza, return the hostages, and expedite a massive surge of humanitarian assistance to the innocent civilians in Gaza. I encourage the Biden Administration to continue its diplomatic efforts in Gaza with urgency, and for the negotiating parties to conclude a deal swiftly.

###