Boise City Wire

WASHINGTON – U.S. Senators Jim Risch (R-Idaho) and Ben Cardin (D-Md.), along with a bipartisan group of senators, hosted American and Israeli families of hostages abducted by Hamas terrorists. The press conference focused on the urgent need for continued U.S. efforts to bring home their loved ones who have been in captivity for over 100 days since the attack on Israel on October 7, 2023.

Ranking Member Risch emphasized the commitment of the senators to ensure the safe return of all 136 remaining hostages, including 6 Americans. He stated, "We have not forgotten the hostages and their families. We are working every minute of every day to ensure the safe return of all 136 remaining hostages, including 6 Americans."

Chair Cardin echoed this sentiment, assuring the families that they have not been forgotten and that the United States stands with them in their efforts to return their family members home safely. He stated, "In every meeting we have, with every senior official we meet, we press to bring your loved ones home."

Senate Majority Leader Schumer emphasized the importance of international cooperation in bringing the hostages home. He urged, "Every leader, every government, and every party with influence must do everything possible to bring these precious hostages home now."

Senator Ernst highlighted the pain and uncertainty that the families have endured for over 100 days. She expressed her determination to hold leaders in the region accountable and reunite the families, stating, "I will not let up in holding our partners’ feet to the fire to reunite families."

Senator Collins assured the families that their loved ones have not been forgotten and that the senators will continue to work for their release. She stated, "We will stand in steadfast support of you as you seek to bring your hostage family members home."

Senator Gillibrand expressed her commitment to fighting for the safe return of each and every hostage. She stated, "The path to peace begins with the safe return of each and every hostage, and I will keep fighting alongside my colleagues in Congress until we have secured their release."

The press conference concluded with a call to action for the immediate release of the hostages. The senators emphasized the need for continued efforts and international cooperation to ensure the safe return of the hostages.