Quigley Statement on Establishing an Arab-led Peacekeeping Force in Gaza to Ensure Food and Medical Aid

Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) released the following statement calling for an Arab-led peacekeeping force in Gaza:

“Since the heinous attack against Israel on October 7th, 2023, the world has watched in horror as the war in Gaza has raged. 1,200 Israelis were killed on October 7th and 250 more were abducted. Today, 100 hostages remain in Gaza with a third of them believed to be dead. Hamas is an evil terrorist organization with a cynical approach to war that exploits civilians. However, Hamas’ utter disregard for life - even the lives of other Palestinians - does not justify the continued devastation and carnage of this war. Over 45,000 Palestinians have been killed over the last 15 months, with the majority being women and children. Ninety percent of Gaza’s population is internally displaced, the threat of widespread famine has lingered for months, and at least six newborns have recently died of hypothermia.

“As I have for my entire career, I firmly believe in Israel’s right to defend itself. As Israel's strongest ally, we have a responsibility to ensure that a war of legitimate self-defense does not devolve into a war of intentional, devastating destruction. After 15 months of war, civil society in Gaza has completely broken down and is creating a new generation that could be radicalized. 

“I am calling for the immediate establishment of a peacekeeping force, composed of Arab states, to help restore order in the Gaza Strip. It is imperative that this brutal war comes to an end so the remaining hostages are released. But we cannot wait until this war ends for humanitarian aid to be widely distributed in Gaza. A peacekeeping force is the only way for this aid to enter and reach the people who desperately need it. The global community must work with Israeli and Arab governments to stem the violence in the region and work towards a peaceful future for Palestinians and Israelis.”