U.S. Rep. Bill Pascrell (D-9) has asked the President Joe Biden (D) administration to bring American hostages home from Gaza as approximately 600 are being held captive by Hamas.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“Every day the Rafah Border Crossing remains closed for those seeking refuge is another day they remain in harm’s way,” Pascrell wrote to Secretary of State Antony Blinken and White House National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.
“I have heard directly from constituents who have family members and loved ones that wish to leave Gaza but are unable to do so because of Hamas. On behalf of my constituents, I implore you to use every possible means to get this border crossing open for American citizens.”
Pascrell’s district includes mostly Bergen County, but also a portion of Passaic County and a small sliver of Hudson County – parts of Kearny and Secaucus – which overall has sizable Jewish American and Muslim American communities.
“I know the administration prioritizes the safety and security of U.S. citizens overseas. To that end, U.S. citizens in the affected areas need something more than to be told to monitor local news and follow the emergency instructions provided by local authorities. My constituents need to be able to return home safely,” he also wrote.
Pascrell, who voted in favor of a House resolution backing Ukraine last year, has been outspoken about the war in Israel.
On October 7th, when Hamas began launching lethal attacks, he said that “Israel has a right to protect its people” and October 20th was the first time he encouraged Biden to secure the hostages being held by Hamas, as well as ensure safe passage for Palestinians.
He then reiterated those calls on October 25th and 30th, adding yesterday that “I echo the administration’s calls to the United Nations Security Council for humanitarian pauses to get humanitarian assistance flow into Gaza and to the people who need food, water, fuel, and other essential resources.”
