Oregon Senate Republican, Democratic leaders ‘stand with Israel,’ House GOP leader urges governor to lower flags
(Update: House GOP leader urges governor to order flags to half-staff)
SALEM, Ore. (KTVZ) -- Despite their differences on many an issue, "Oregon Senate Democrats and Republicans stand together in condemnation of the horrific acts of violence perpetrated against the people of Israel by Hamas terrorists," the two party's leaders said Tuesday. Meanwhile, the House Republican leader urged Gov. Tina Kotek to order public flags lowered to half-staff.
Oregon Senate Democratic Leader Kate Lieber and Senate Republican Leader Tim Knopp released the following joint statement:
“We unequivocally stand with our ally Israel and affirm their right to defend themselves from the brutal terrorist acts perpetrated by Iranian-backed Hamas. We mourn the tragic loss of hundreds of innocent civilian lives.
“This violence and chaos must end. The terrorists responsible for the heinous attack must face severe consequences, and we call on Hamas to release all hostages immediately.”
Meanwhile, in recognition of the thousands wounded and held hostage, and more than 1,100 innocent lives lost to Hamas terrorist attacks in Israel, House Republican Leader Jeff Helfrich (R-Hood River) is asking Governor Kotek to immediately order all flags to fly at half-staff.
Leader Helfrich released the following statement:
“We cannot ignore the atrocities that have been committed against the Israeli people and the Jewish community at large. Blood thirsty Hamas terrorists have murdered more than 1,100 innocent men, women, and children, and held hostage hundreds of others – including Americans. All statements dismissing these atrocities are disgraceful.
“As a military veteran who has served overseas, it is clear that this war has worldwide impacts. Now is the time to recognize the evil in front of us and denounce Hamas, a terrorist organization whose intention is to eradicate the State of Israel and Jewish people around the world.
“There must be no doubt that the State of Oregon stands firm with Israel and Oregon’s Jewish communities in their time of need.”
