WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, Congressman Edward J. Markey (D-Mass.), dean of the Massachusetts Congressional delegation, issued the following statement after the release of Israeli Army Corporal Gilad Shalit:
 
“Today is a day of celebration for Gilad Shalit, his family and for all the people of Israel. After 5 years of unjust imprisonment, Gilad Shalit finally is at home with his loved ones thanks to the unrelenting efforts of his family, government negotiators, and friends and supporters. But there are many more captured Israeli soldiers who still remain held in inhumane conditions, and our resolve must remain steadfast until they are all released.

“I was in Israel this spring to celebrate the 63rd anniversary of the founding of the state of Israel. I hope that the release of Gilad Shalit will spark a new phase of negotiation between the Israelis and the Palestinians to bring a peaceful resolution to the decades-long conflict that has caused so much sorrow and violence for both peoples. Let the determination of Gilad Shalit, his family and supporters rekindle hope for a positive, peaceful future for the Israeli and Palestinian peoples - two countries living side by side in peace and security.”  
 
Rep. Markey’s letter to President Obama urging him to work for Gilad Shalit’s release can be found HERE

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