A Statement on the Violence in Israel-Palestine

We at CIP are appalled and heartbroken by the recent violence in Israel-Palestine. We unequivocally condemn Hamas’s attacks on and inhumane treatment of unarmed civilians, which are egregious violations of international law. We mourn the loss of hundreds of Israeli lives in yesterday’s attacks, and call for the immediate release of hostages taken by Hamas.

We also acknowledge that the Palestinian people continue to suffer under a decades-long Israeli occupation and Gaza blockade. We mourn the loss of hundreds of Palestinian lives this year, with many more in the last day.

The harrowing events unfolding demonstrate that massive military power and the most sophisticated surveillance technologies are insufficient to prevent violence and threats, especially amidst the daily abuses of systemic discrimination and repression. The United States should root its response in international law regarding the protection of civilians, and in fundamental principles of human rights. All people, regardless of their identity, have a right to security and dignity. Any effort to simply manage this conflict by upholding a status quo devoid of these ideals will invariably remain fragile and transient.

The staff and fellows at CIP represent a diverse collective of identities and backgrounds. We are united in our commitment to the principles of justice, equality, and human security, and stand in solidarity with all of those in Israel, Palestine and beyond who share them.

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