Long Beach City Council Supports Ceasefire in Gaza

The Long Beach City Council Dec. 19 passed a proclamation supporting a permanent ceasefire in Gaza

It’s the most recent city in the state to pass or consider making this statement.

City council voted 5-2 in favor of the proclamation following close to a three-hour public comment period.

NBC reported the proclamation, introduced by Council members Joni Ricks-Oddie, Roberto Uranga and Al Austin, declares:

“The city of Long Beach stands firmly on the foundation of peace, unity, respect, and understanding. The City Council recognizes that Palestinian and Israeli lives have the same value, and that all human life is precious. The City Council acknowledges the current humanitarian crisis in Gaza and has condemned the attacks on Israel. Palestinian people deserve self-determination. Israel has a right to defend itself. Palestinians and Israelis equally deserve dignity, security, and to live without harm. The City Council calls on our federal leaders to support negotiations that lead to a lasting humanitarian ceasefire in Israel and Gaza, the release of all hostages, the safe passage of food, water, medical supplies, and other life-saving humanitarian aid into Gaza, and a peaceful resolution that achieves both an end to the attacks on Israel by Hamas, and the protection of civilian life in Gaza and Israel.”