House GOP Leaders Host Press Event with Israeli Hostage Families; Criticize Biden's Response to Hamas Attacks; Reject Ceasefire Proposals

House GOP leaders stand in solidarity with Israeli hostage families at press event marking one-month anniversary of Hamas attack; Republican representatives criticize Biden administration's lack of action and refute calls for ceasefire, instead pushing for a more assertive support of Israel and its efforts to eradicate Hamas.

House Republican leaders held a press event with families of Israeli hostages on the one-month anniversary of their capture to bring attention to their plight and seek help for their safe return.
Republicans utilized the event to criticize the Biden administration, particularly Rep. Cory Mills (R-FL) who directly blamed the Oct. 7 attack on the current administration and its inability to form a resolution or strategy. He stated that they’ve 'emboldened adversaries like the Iran-backed Hamas terrorist organization and left our key allies vulnerable'.
Family members of the hostages expressed their anguish and desperation for support from the US. Doris Libber, mother of hostage Guy Iluz, stressed on the importance of this alliance, 'I’m part of your people. You’re part of Israel, and America has been like the best ally. I’m so proud of being an American, being an Israeli as well. But I do need you now.'
The press event also saw the Republicans reject calls for a ceasefire, firmly supporting Israel’s war efforts instead. Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) stated, 'This is not a time to be talking about ceasefires, pauses... it's a war that we here in the United States are going to stand with Israel every step of the way to make sure these families get the relief they need to get their family members back.'
House Republicans, with support from 12 Democrats, had reportedly passed a package last week that paired $14.3 billion in aid to Israel with cuts to a boost in IRS funding. Johnson urged the Senate to pass this package despite opposition.