Colorado’s Extreme Progressive Democrats Push for Ceasefire in Gaza
A group of current and former Democratic state lawmakers in Colorado are facing criticism for their efforts to push the state's congressional delegation to call for a bilateral ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.v
Organizers of the initiative rallied on the west steps of the state Capitol, urging Colorado's federal lawmakers to “take action.”
The coalition, led by Democratic state Rep. Iman Jodeh, is planning to send a letter to each of the state's 10 federal lawmakers, calling for a ceasefire and emphasizing the release of Israeli and foreign national hostages, the restoration of basic services to Gaza, and the passage of humanitarian aid to the region.
Jodeh, who is the state's first Palestinian American lawmaker said in a press release, "This is about humanity. We cannot afford to sit back as the world pleads for the United States to demand a ceasefire."
Critics of the initiative argue that the focus should be on Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas, a recognized terrorist organization. They question the appropriateness of Colorado Democrats involving themselves in a complex international conflict and argue that the United States should not interfere in the sovereign affairs of other nations.
Former Democratic state lawmaker Jonathan Singer, who is Jewish, released a statement explaining his decision to support the ceasefire call. Singer acknowledged the historical displacement of Jews and their connection to Israel but argued that the Palestinian people also deserve a sovereign state. He emphasized the need for a diplomatic solution and the return of hostages.
Interestingly, both of Colorado's Democratic senators, John Hickenlooper and Michael Bennet, have called for more aid to Gaza but have not joined the push for a ceasefire. This raises questions about the unity within the Democratic Party on this issue and highlights the complexities surrounding the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
It is important to note that earlier this month, the United States was the only country to vote against a United Nations Security Council resolution calling for a ceasefire. This decision was made in recognition of the challenges and complexities involved in brokering a lasting peace between Israel and Hamas.
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Hamas, on its part, has reportedly rejected a proposed truce deal from Israel, which would have secured the release of hostages in exchange for a one-week pause in fighting. The group's refusal to negotiate further unless Israel halts the fighting further complicates the path to a peaceful resolution.
On Saturday, Hamas again rejected another proposed Israeli truce deal that would have secured the release of 40 hostages in exchange for a one-week pause in fighting. The terrorist group has also indicated that there would be no more negotiations over prisoner exchanges unless Israel halted the fighting.