St. Paul Reporter

Rep. Betty McCollum, who has been serving in the U.S. Congress representing Minnesota's 4th district since 2001, recently shared her views on a ceasefire agreement involving Lebanon, Israel, and Hezbollah. The congresswoman's statements were made via social media on November 27, 2024.

In one post, McCollum emphasized the responsibility of both parties involved in the conflict to uphold the terms of the newly established agreement. She expressed hope that civilians across Lebanon could "finally be able to live in peace with their neighbors once again." "It's now up to both parties to honor the terms of this agreement and allow civilians across Lebanon to finally be able to live in peace with their neighbors once again."

Another tweet from McCollum thanked President Biden and Secretary Blinken for their roles in facilitating discussions between Israeli government officials and Hezbollah militants, which led to a ceasefire deal in Southern Lebanon. She noted this development as positive amidst a war that has severely affected civilians in Lebanon and the surrounding region. "I thank @POTUS and @SecBlinken for bringing together Israeli government officials and Hezbollah militants to reach the ceasefire deal in Southern Lebanon. It's a positive development in a war that has been devastating for civilians in Lebanon and across the region."

In a subsequent statement, McCollum described this ceasefire as merely an initial step towards peace. She urged for continued efforts by all parties involved to negotiate a broader regional ceasefire, advocating for measures such as releasing hostages and ending military operations by Israel in Gaza. "This is the first step toward peace in many months, and it cannot be the last. Now is the time to bring together all parties to negotiate a regional ceasefire that includes the release of all hostages and brings an end to Israel’s devastating military campaign in Gaza."