The South Dakota Democratic Party issued the following statement on the war in Gaza as well as the growing antisemitism and Islamophobia in the US:

“The actions by Hamas on October 7th were a horrific attack on Israel, and those who have been kidnapped should be protected and brought home. However, the actions by Israel to defend itself have led to the deaths of more than 30,000 people in Gaza, many of whom are children. The war has also displaced 2 million people, leaving many without shelter, food or water.”

“The threat by President Biden to stop shipments of some US weapons to Israel is a positive step forward in protecting the lives of innocent men, women and children, as well as the hostages who have been kidnapped by Hamas. We are also hopeful that more aid will soon be delivered to people in Gaza with a military pier and causeway now constructed.”

“It is our hope that the Biden-Harris Administration will continue to put pressure on Israel to preserve as many civilian lives as possible while also helping to defeat Hamas and putting an end to hostilities.”

“The South Dakota Democratic Party also realizes it must take responsibility to educate and intervene when it comes to antisemitism and Islamophobia within our communities. There is no place for hate in South Dakota. We are committed to taking action when we see injustice.”

For questions, you can contact the SDDP Executive Director Dan Ahlers at [email protected] or contact the state party office by phone at 605-271-5405 or 605-940-3071.