Rep. Jim Costa Statement on the Release of Hostages Held by Hamas

FRESNO, Calif. - Congressman Jim Costa, a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, issued the following statement regarding the release of hostages held by Hamas. 

"After two years of pain, horrific suffering, and uncertainty, the hostages held by Hamas have been released. We now have a tentative ceasefire, hopefully it lasts. The hostages have been reunited with their families, and this is good news. My thoughts and prayers are with those whose loved ones did not return but who never lost hope,”said Congressman Costa.  

Today marks a critical and important first step in this agreement. It is essential that all parties continue to honor each phase, along with increasing the provision of humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza, to pave the way toward a stable and lasting peace for both the Israeli and Palestinian people.”