Congressman Richard E. Neal:

"I join President Bush, President-elect Obama and the bi-partisan leadership of the United States Congress in support of Israel's right to defend itself against the rocket and mortar attacks by the terrorist group Hamas. In the past six weeks, more than 600 rockets and mortars have been fired from the Gaza Strip at innocent Israeli civilians. Nearly 500,000 Israelis are within range of Hamas' deadly arsenal. The State of Israel is a sovereign nation that has a right to defend itself. And there is no doubt that the United States and its allies hold Hamas responsible for the current crisis in the region.

For many years, I have been an outspoken supporter of the efforts to bring peace and security to the Middle East. A negotiated settlement between the Israelis and Palestinians is the only way to resolve the conflict between the two parties. I welcome the call for an immediate ceasefire and support humanitarian assistance for Palestinians in Gaza. But the attacks and aggression on innocent Israelis by Hamas have to stop immediately."

Congressman John Olver:

"With grave concern I have been following the latest developments in the Gaza Strip; The people of Israel have a right to be safe in their homes and daily lives.

I strongly support Israel's right to defend itself as well as the right of Palestinians to realize a viable and sustainable state.

I call upon the United States, the United Nations Security Council, and the broader international community to secure an immediate and lengthy cease-fire and encourage both sides to begin serious negotiations to avoid repetition of this latest round of violence.

Right now, immediate humanitarian assistance-especially food and medical supplies- is needed for Palestinian civilians in Gaza. In the future, the United States must lead the effort towards achieving a permanent and sustainable peace agreement; only then will Israelis and Palestinians be able to live in peace and security."

Congressman Barney Frank:

"It is important to remember that the current conflict in Gaza comes after a unilateral Israeli withdrawal from that area. Tragically, this was followed by a takeover by Hamas, which is dedicated to Israel's destruction, and has constantly used Gaza as a base for physical attacks on Israel and Israelis.

This use of Gaza as a base from which to attack Israel left Israel with no choice except self defense, particularly after Hamas refused to continue the imperfectly observed ceasefire, and made clear its intention to resume attacks.

As it exercises this right of self defense, it is important for Israel to make clear its willingness to accept a genuine ceasefire - meaning an end to attacks from Gaza, and also Israel's continuing commitment to a two state solution negotiated with Palestinians genuinely committed to that goal."

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