Hoyer Statement on Israel and Hezbollah Ceasefire Agreement

WASHINGTON, DC – Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) released the following statement today regarding the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hezbollah in Lebanon:

"The US-backed ceasefire announced today between Israel and Hezbollah is a major breakthrough in our Israeli allies' war for survival against Iran and its terrorist proxies. Hezbollah's terrorist attacks in Israel's north over the past year displaced some 70,000 Israeli civilians. This agreement must be fully implemented and enforced to ensure these civilians can return to their homes and live in safety. Crucially, this ceasefire further isolates and demoralizes Hamas and Iran. America will continue to support Israel in its efforts to defeat Hamas in Gaza and to achieve victory on all seven fronts of this war.

"I am pleased that Israeli forces successfully dislodged Hezbollah from its positions along Israel's border with Lebanon. Now that this ceasefire is in place, we must ensure that it is enforced and that Hezbollah can never remilitarize the border region. Israel – like every other nation – cannot be expected to sit idle as terrorists operate on its doorstep and maintains its right to defend itself if Hezbollah violates this ceasefire. I praise President Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, and our diplomats who worked tirelessly to secure this agreement.

"This deal leaves Hamas with only one option: return the remaining 101 hostages – including seven Americans – it took hostage on October 7 and end its terror campaign against Israel. America shares Israel's mission to defeat and dismantle Hamas, which, like Hezbollah, receives resources and orders from Iran. Until we eliminate these terrorist organizations' ability to carry out the type of attacks we saw on October 7, and until we have subdued Iran's malicious influence, we will not be able to bring lasting peace and stability to the region. America and Israel will continue to stand should to shoulder to that end."