STATEMENT: Gottheimer Statement on Expanding Aid Deliveries and a Path Forward

NORTH JERSEY – Today, July 29, 2025, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer (NJ-5) released the following statement on expanding aid deliveries and a path forward:

“Since October 7, when Hamas terrorists brutally kidnapped, raped, and murdered 1,200 people, including dozens of Americans, I have been consistent in my calls for the immediate release of every hostage and the end to Hamas’ reign of terror. Without this, Israel’s security cannot be ensured.

I’ve been clear since day one: humanitarian aid must reach Palestinian civilians who need it most — not Hamas terrorists who seize it. That’s why I welcomed Israel’s recent announcement to expand aid drops, open more humanitarian corridors, and make food more widely available to civilians in Gaza. These steps show Israel is committed to minimizing civilian suffering, even as it defends itself from a terrorist enemy that hides behind civilians. Israel should continue and expand these efforts with the support of the international community.

But let’s be clear: the blood of this war, and the humanitarian crisis in the region, is on Hamas’ hands. Hamas has never shown an ounce of concern for innocent Palestinian families and children, who have been repeatedly used as human shields. As they have done for years — and as tunnel after tunnel proves — Hamas has systematically stolen food and supplies from innocent Palestinian families and children to fuel their terror operations. Just last week, Hamas walked away from talks with Israel. They also launched a rocket at an aid distribution site in southern Gaza, where food packages were being handed out to civilians in need. Hamas doesn’t want peace — they want power, headlines, and chaos. Let’s not lose sight of the fact that they are a terrorist organization with ties to Iran, the parent company of terror in the Middle East.

Although getting additional aid into the region is a positive step, the responsibility is not Israel’s alone. More must be done. While Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE have conducted humanitarian airdrops, there is now an opportunity for all Arab states to step up and immediately surge their humanitarian support, not just levy criticism, as most have done. Egypt and Qatar must also use every tool at their disposal to pressure Hamas to return to the negotiating table. Moreover, while our European partners, including the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, have announced their intent to provide some humanitarian aid to Gaza, they must significantly and consistently increase their contributions.

This is especially true for President Macron, who has repeatedly criticized Israel, even going so far as to announce plans to unilaterally recognize a Palestinian state. This performative gesture is a one-sided move that only rewards Hamas’ terrorism, undermines prospects for a two-state solution, and fails to do anything to ease suffering on the ground. Instead of putting out vacuous, uninformed statements to the press, Macron should focus on real action, starting with delivering significantly more aid to Gaza. Other world leaders should do the same. It’s time for them to step up to the plate.

Together, we must bring home every hostage, end the suffering of innocent civilians, and work toward a future in Gaza without Hamas — for the safety of both Palestinians and Israelis.”

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