Texas lawmaker says Israel must defend itself ‘in accordance with international law’

Rep. Veronica Escobar (D-Texas) said the United States and its democratic allies have an obligation to uphold the laws of war and protect innocent human lives, in regard to the ongoing war between Hamas and Israel.

“I unequivocally condemn Hamas’ brutality, am horrified by the bloodshed left in its wake, and deeply mourn the innocent lives taken much too soon,” Escobar said in a statement posted on X, the platform formerly known as Twitter.

Escobar said she supports Israel’s right to defend itself, but it must do so in “accordance with international law.” She said she shared the concerns expressed by international human rights organizations worried about civilian casualties in the war.

She said the U.S. and its allies “have a moral obligation to uphold the laws of war.”

“It bears repeating that Palestinian civilians are not Hamas and had nothing to do with the shocking attacks,” Escobar said. “The United States must work to ensure innocent residents of Gaza are not indiscriminately punished for the actions of terrorists.”

Israel gave an order to 1 million Gaza City residents to evacuate in 24 hours ahead of a possible ground operation. Residents began leaving the area in a panic but had limited options of where to flee to. As the 24-hour warning draws to a close, Escobar said the demand by the Israeli military his “impossible” and will compound the “humanitarian catastrophe.”

“The U.S. must be unwavering in our commitment to prevent the continued loss of innocent civilian lives,” Escobar said.

Other progressive lawmakers are urging President Biden to communicate that Israel’s response to the attack must limit harm to civilians and adhere to international law. The lawmakers signed a letter that cited the United Nations’ warnings that an order for 1 million people to evacuate a small area in 24 hours is a violation of international humanitarian war.

According to media images, people have begun evacuating Gaza City and moving southward.