Congressman Ruiz Condemns Attacks on Israel

Congressman Ruiz Condemns Attacks on Israel by Hamas and Provides Resources for Constituents in region

WASHINGTON, D.C. — Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D., CA-25, condemns attacks on Israel and released the following statement on the ongoing Israeli-Palestinian conflict and resources available to anyone in the region:

“I strongly condemn the attacks against Israel by Hamas militants. My thoughts and prayers are with those families and individuals who have been affected by these horrific attacks. Instead of celebrating Simchat Torah, families have been left heartbroken and mourning their loved ones. This is appalling and unacceptable. I stand by our ally Israel and their right to defend themselves. I also call on Hamas to release those they have been captured and are being held hostage. Bringing any harm to innocent civilians is callous and cowardly.”

All of my constituents who are affected by this tragedy are close to my heart, Ruiz added. “I care deeply for their safety and am working nonstop with the U.S. State Department to help expedite their safe and swift return.

For constituents who need assistance, please call my office at (760) 424-8888

U.S. citizens seeking to be in touch with the U.S. Embassy in Israel can fill out this form or call 1-833-890-9595 or 1-606-641-0131.

For the latest updates, please monitor messages to U.S. citizens from the U.S. Embassy in Israel: https://il.usembassy.gov/u-s-citizen-services/security-and-travel-information/

Please ask any U.S. citizens in Israel to enroll their contact information in the State Department’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP): https://step.state.gov/step/

Additional updates to travel advisories for Israel, the West Bank, and Gaza will be posted here as they are issued: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/IsraeltheWestBankandGaza.html