The Tillamook County Democratic Central Committee passed a CEASEFIRE resolution on February 8, 2024

WHEREAS, we condemn and mourn the loss of innocent lives in Israel and Palestine where over twelve hundred people were killed in Israel by Hamas militants, and where the escalating number of Palestinians killed by Israeli military actions in Gaza since October 7, 2023, is approximately equivalent to the total number of residents in Tillamook County– over twenty-five thousand;

WHEREAS, while there was successful release of some Israeli hostages and Palestinian political prisoners during the temporary ceasefire of November 24 - 30, 2023, we mourn that the Israeli military has directly killed 3 Israeli hostages in their offensive in Gaza and that over 100 Israeli hostages still alive in Gaza are endangered, and that there are currently 2,000 Palestinians, including children, imprisoned without charge in Israel;

WHEREAS, Gaza is in a dire humanitarian crisis that is getting worse with each passing day, with the only remaining hospitals running out of fuel and medical supplies, and over 1.5 million Palestinians are facing displacement, homelessness, and starvation;

WHEREAS, international organizations like the United Nations, the World Health Organization, the US Agency for International Development (USAID), Doctors without Borders, Mercy Corps, and large American Unions such as the United Auto Workers, National Nurses United, American Postal Workers Union, and the SEIU have called for a ceasefire in order to prevent the further loss of life of civilians and to be in accordance with international humanitarian law;

WHEREAS, US military aid to Israel tops $3.8 billion dollars yearly, the United States providing 80% of Israel's weapons, and since October 7, 2023, the US has sent 5,000 MK-84 munitions (2,000-pound bombs) which evidence suggests were used in areas designated safe for civilians, causing mass casualties;

WHEREAS, the US federal government holds immense diplomatic power to save Israeli and Palestinian lives and it is in our national interest to not be complicit in or appear to support any country’s abuse of human rights, forced displacement of or war crimes against civilian populations anywhere in the world.

Now, therefore, be it RESOLVED that the Tillamook County Democrats support an immediate long-term ceasefire, the return of all hostages, anddelivery of adequate humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people.

Also be it RESOLVED that we thank Senator Merkley for calling for a ceasefire and delivery of humanitarian aid, and we urge all of Oregon’s delegation, including our Congresswoman Bonamici, Senator Wyden, and Governor Kotek, and especially President Biden, to also clearly advocate an immediate and long-term ceasefire and provision of humanitarian aid.

Approved by Tillamook County Democratic Central Committee February 8, 2024