WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Senator Andy Kim (D-NJ) released the following statement regarding his vote on Joint Resolutions of Disapproval S.J. Res. 41 and S.J. Res. 34: 

“I voted today to support the Joint Resolutions of Disapproval because the humanitarian catastrophe and widespread starvation underscores the necessity to end the military campaign in Gaza and allow for unfettered humanitarian access. The weapons systems in the resolutions would only take us further from the change that is needed and prolong the suffering we witness.  

“I had a heartbreaking phone call this morning with someone on the ground in Gaza who shared a story about a mother whose children are surviving on a quarter loaf of bread a day each, who herself often goes two-three days without eating. Her story is one of many in Gaza that cry out for help. 

“Part of the outrage of this crisis is that there is enough food waiting across the border to feed Gazans in need. Thousands of trucks are ready to deliver, but they need greater access by the Israeli government. The current distribution system cannot handle the level of desperation. In fact, it’s making the misery worse. The current pauses in fighting and air drops simply are not enough for the necessary food to get to the people who need it. 

“There needs to be an immediate and fundamental change in the response in Gaza. That means an immediate cessation of military action that will restore full humanitarian access levels that aid groups had during the last ceasefire earlier this year, as well as an agreed ceasefire to end the violence and free the remaining hostages. There is overwhelming support for this approach, including among Israelis surveyed.  

“Prime Minister Netanyahu has so far rejected calls to change course, but I believe the magnitude of the humanitarian crisis demands that supporters of Israel continue to urge him to do so. Having worked in war zones before, I know how much worse this crisis can get. I do not take this action lightly, and I plead with all to join the call for change. Providing sufficient humanitarian assistance doesn’t strengthen Hamas; it in fact would weaken the terrorist group and provide the necessary conditions for a viable alternative. Allowing aid to flow doesn’t diminish Israel’s security; it would strengthen it by rebuilding confidence with key regional and international actors.  

“I’ve had emotional and honest conversations with many in the Jewish, Muslim, and Arab communities in New Jersey over recent months. The antisemitism and Islamophobia that has left communities reeling is real fear and we need to work together to stop it. I weighed these conversations heavily as I considered my vote and I understand that some will strongly disagree with my decision. I will continue to engage with those in our state deeply impacted by the current crisis and will do so with the incredible weight and importance of these decisions in mind.” 

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