LANSING, Mich. - Senator Irma Clark-Coleman expressed concern today for the worsening humanitarian crisis and loss of life in Gaza and Israel. The devastation of the economy, infrastructure and civilian deaths inflicted on the Palestinian people of Gaza and Israel was only further exacerbated by the disproportionate military operation of Israel which has claimed the lives of several hundred Palestinians and wounded thousands more.

Senator Clark-Coleman’s statement is as follows:

“The world needs both sides of the conflict to stop the horrific bloodshed and cease fire. The dignity and the human rights of all must be respected.

Despair, joblessness and a lack of human liberty can only serve to aggravate historical wounds and undermine the national security of Israel and the United States at a time when both nations face many challenges.

I urge the administration, U.S. Congress and international community to use all available diplomatic means to bring both sides to an immediate cease fire and prevent an escalation or expansion of the conflict. The attacks on civilians by both sides must end immediately.

I support the pledge of President-elect Obama to commit to a sustained, long-term diplomatic engagement that will not be undermined by hostile aggression in the Middle East region. I extend my friendship, sympathy and solidarity to the afflicted civilians on both sides of the conflict and pray for a lasting, just peace to prevail in the region.”

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