1. United States
2. Letter

A lasting ceasefire and end to the cycle of violence in Gaza is crucial. The ongoing conflict has caused immense suffering, with the latest figures showing over 40,000 Palestinians killed and nearly 93,000 wounded due to Israel's military actions. Hamas rocket attacks have also taken a severe toll, killing over 1,000 Israelis. The proposed ceasefire framework aimed to freeze hostilities, exchange prisoners, and allow humanitarian aid into Gaza – a positive step. However, Hamas accuses the US of acquiescing to Israel's demands to maintain military control over key areas of Gaza, contradicting the original deal terms. This undermines prospects for a just resolution respecting Palestinian rights and self-determination. A comprehensive arms embargo on all parties could create urgency to reach a diplomatic solution and prevent further civilian casualties from advanced weaponry. My support for Harris as president is weighed heavily on this issue. Ultimately, a negotiated settlement establishing an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel based on 1967 borders, as envisioned in the two-state solution, is needed to address the root causes of this decades-old conflict. Sustained international pressure and good-faith diplomacy from all sides are essential to break the current deadly impasse and pursue a just and lasting peace.