1. United States
2. Wash.
3. Letter

CONGRESS I write from a place of great urgency and concern as the alarming events unfolding in the Middle East are neither just nor humane. The American taxpayer dollars being used to fund the current assault against Palestinian civilians in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict are, in essence, sponsoring a humanitarian crisis. This conflict, fueled by the export of billions of dollars' worth of arms, is perpetuating unthinkable violence and tormenting innocent lives, and it is being carried out in our name. As a supporter of our nation’s democratic ideals and bearer of its cherished values, I implore you to recognize the human lives and livelihoods lost within this escalating conflict. While affirming our commitment to our allies, we must also affirm our commitment to justice and humanity. It is unjust and inhumane to treat the Palestinians, whose homes are being systematically destroyed and whose lives are constantly under threat, as mere pawns on a geopolitical chessboard. Calling for an immediate ceasefire and cessation of violence should only be the first step in our moral responsibility. We must back up these pleas with definitive action by stopping the billions of dollars in military aid that do nothing but fan the flames of this conflict. We must demand the abolishment of any actions resembling crimes against humanity and utilize our considerable influence to prompt a fair, lasting, and peaceful resolution. Our conscience, our values, and indeed, our place in the annals of history, demand nothing less.