(NewsNation) — Sen. Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., called for new elections in Israel as he gave a speech on the Senate floor Thursday, urging for a two-state solution.
During his speech, Schumer reiterated his strong support for Israel, though also heavily criticized its Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, for his repeated rejections of a two-state solution, even saying at one point that he’s “lost his way.”
Other Israeli officials were also called out by Schumer for their “extremist” rhetoric.
“We cannot let anger or trauma determine our actions or cloud our judgment,” Schumer said. “A two-state solution may feel daunting, especially now. But I believe it is the only realistic and sustainable solution on the basis of security, on the basis of prosperity, on the basis of fundamental human rights and dignity.”
Specifically, Schumer said there are four major obstacles to achieving peace between Palestinians and Israelis.
Schumer’s speech comes as Israel is coming under scrutiny and criticism over its bombardment of Gaza. More than 31,270 people in Gaza, including many children, have been killed since Oct. 7, in Israel’s response to a Hamas incursion that killed over 1,200 people and resulted in around 250 hostages. Some captives have since been freed.
After nearly five months, much of Gaza is now in ruins, and many of its 2.3 million residents displaced. Officials have said that Israel’s siege and offensive are pushing Palestinians into famine, the Associated Press reported, with a quarter of Gaza’s population reportedly starving.
This has spurred calls for a permanent cease-fire from activists and politicians alike.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
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