Ocean County Leader

Rep. Chris Smith, a senior member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has issued a statement regarding the recent developments in Gaza. The statement follows Israel's confirmation of a hostage-release and ceasefire agreement.

Smith expressed his appreciation for the efforts of President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu, stating: "President Trump and Prime Minister Netanyahu deserve enormous and full credit for getting Israel’s hostages released and securing the ceasefire deal." He attributed the success of the agreement to Trump's election and his imminent presidency, emphasizing Trump's commitment to finding mutually acceptable terms.

Smith also highlighted Trump's leadership by referencing former President Reagan's approach, saying: "President Trump was right, in his announcement of the deal, to evoke Reagan’s motto of Peace Through Strength. Trump’s leadership and success reminds us of Reagan’s success in getting U.S. hostages released in the run-up to Reagan’s swearing-in 1980."

In addition to expressing happiness for those affected by the release, Smith noted his optimism about the ceasefire's potential benefits for Israel and the broader Middle East region. He concluded by expressing his eagerness to collaborate with President Trump and Secretary Rubio on global peace initiatives: "As a senior Republican member of the Foreign Affairs Committee I look forward to working with President Trump and Secretary Rubio on their mission to seek peace throughout the world on terms that will benefit America and its allies."