Statement on the Israel-Hamas War

Transcript of speech:

Citizens of the Confederation, Peoples of the world.

Starting on the 7th of October, thousands of rockets were launched by the terrorist group Hamas into Israel. Following this barrage, over a thousand fighters spilled out from the Gaza Strip and attacked numerous towns and military installations. Many innocent civilians were killed. And over the last few weeks, Israel has responded by laying siege to the Gaza Strip and bombing the city from the air.

Myself, my administration and our entire Confederation condemn the repugnant violence of Hamas and its cruel ideology. However, we also condemn the vicious oppression that helped spawn this hateful group. For too long the people of Palestine have been denied a state. Forced to live in their homeland as second-class citizens, subject to forced relocations and wanton violence. This current state of affairs cannot go on. Too many innocent Israelis and Palestinians have suffered due to the madness of extremists.

I therefore call upon the people of the Gaza Strip to overthrow the Hamas terrorists. I also call upon Israel to show restraint in its operations and to allow for food and medicine to enter the strip. And I join most of the world in imploring both Palestine and Israel to work together towards a two-state solution. Only through cooperation can a lasting peace be achieved.