Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton has pushed back against activists and individuals demanding a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, stating that such an agreement would be a “gift” for the terrorist government. Clinton made these remarks during the James A. Baker III Institute for Public Policy’s 30th-anniversary event on Thursday, challenging those who advocate for a truce.
“People who are calling for a ceasefire now don’t understand Hamas,” Clinton emphasized, as reported by The Jerusalem Post. “That is not possible. It would be such a gift to Hamas because they would spend whatever time there was a ceasefire in effect rebuilding their armaments, creating stronger positions to fend off an eventual assault by the Israelis.”
Clinton’s statement comes as Israel entered its fourth week of conflict against Hamas. The terrorist group infiltrated the country on October 7, firing thousands of rockets at residential areas and causing civilian casualties.
As the conflict rages on, casualties have risen significantly on both sides, with approximately 9,900 people killed, including Israeli civilians and soldiers, Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, and Americans caught in the crossfire. The ongoing hostilities have led to widespread international concern and calls for a peaceful resolution.
Clinton’s stance on the issue aligns with her firm belief that a ceasefire at this moment would not serve the greater cause of peace in the region. Her remarks underscore the complexities of the situation and the challenges faced by those attempting to broker a peaceful resolution to the conflict between Israel and Hamas.
Additionally, Clinton’s recent encounter with a persistent heckler at Columbia University’s event shed light on the tensions surrounding the discussion of U.S. foreign policy, particularly in relation to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Clinton’s steadfast response highlights the gravity of the situation and the need for nuanced, well-informed discussions on the complex dynamics at play in the region.
As the conflict continues, the international community closely watches developments, hoping for a peaceful resolution that ensures the safety and security of all those affected by the ongoing hostilities.