North Miami-Dade News

Representatives Mario Díaz-Balart, Lois Frankel, Kathy Manning, and Jen Kiggans have introduced a bipartisan House Resolution condemning Hamas's use of rape and sexual violence as weapons of war. The resolution specifically addresses the atrocities committed by Hamas in the ongoing conflict with Israel.

In a statement, Rep. Díaz-Balart expressed his pride in leading the resolution and emphasized the unwavering solidarity of Congress in condemning the ruthlessness of Hamas. He called for the perpetrators to be held accountable and for measures to be taken to prevent such atrocities from happening again. Rep. Frankel echoed these sentiments, stating that rape and sexual violence are crimes against humanity and should never be used as weapons of war.

Rep. Manning, deeply affected by the brutal sexual violence inflicted on women and girls in Israel by Hamas terrorists, is leading the resolution to unequivocally condemn these atrocities. She called for international bodies to hold the perpetrators accountable and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting survivors of sexual violence. Rep. Kiggans, a former Naval officer and a woman serving in Congress, expressed her appalled reaction to these sickening acts. She joined her colleagues in condemning the violence and standing with millions across the United States who share their disgust.

Leading Jewish organizations and advocates have also voiced their support for the resolution. Ted Deutch, CEO of the American Jewish Committee, applauded the representatives for their condemnation of Hamas's atrocities and their support for independent investigations into the use of rape and sexual violence as weapons of war. Jonathan Greenblatt, CEO and National Director of the Anti-Defamation League, emphasized the importance of not dismissing or downplaying the use of rape and sexual violence by Hamas. He expressed gratitude for the bipartisan resolution, which stands with the survivors and seeks to bring the perpetrators to justice.

Hadassah National President Carol Ann Schwartz emphasized the need to hold Hamas accountable for war crimes committed against Israeli women and girls. Jody Rabhan, Chief Policy Officer of the National Council of Jewish Women, echoed this sentiment, stating that the voices of the victims should not be silenced, and the perpetrators must be punished.

The resolution, which currently has 149 cosponsors from both parties, condemns all rape and forms of sexual violence as weapons of war, calls for the criminalization of these acts, and urges all nations and international bodies to hold Hamas accountable. It also reaffirms the United States Government's support for independent investigations and its commitment to supporting survivors of rape and sexual violence.

The resolution has garnered support from various organizations, including the American Jewish Committee, the Anti-Defamation League, AIPAC, Hadassah, and the National Council of Jewish Women.

The introduction of this bipartisan resolution sends a strong message that rape and sexual violence have no place in war and that those who commit such heinous acts must face consequences. It is a crucial step towards ensuring justice for the victims and preventing future atrocities.