Sen. Eric Lucero (R-Saint Michael), Rep. Paul Novotny (R-Elk River), and Rep. Walter Hudson (R-Albertville) were among 70 Republican co-signers in the Minnesota Senate and House of a legislative letter condemning the attacks on Israel and supporting Israel’s right to self-defense. The letter was released October 24, 2023.

The recent attacks instigated by Hamas resulted in the largest loss of Jewish life since the Holocaust; several Minnesotans have been killed in the fighting. Ten Americans are among the approximate 200 hostages being held in Gaza by Hamas terrorists.

The text of the joint letter reads:

“We, the undersigned, express our deep sorrow over the unprovoked attacks carried out against the people of Israel. These heinous acts of murder, rape, and kidnapping committed against innocent men, women, and children demonstrate the evil depravity which fills the hearts and minds of the enemies of Israel. It is imperative to stand in solidarity with Israel and the Jewish people.

Hamas is one of many Islamic terrorist organizations which has demonstrated a blatant disregard for human life and has actively undermined efforts to achieve peace in the region. They have been supported in their attacks by neighboring countries which leaves Israelis in a constant state of peril. The indiscriminate massacre of innocent people by Islamic terrorist organizations backed by countries which deny Israel’s right to exist is reprehensible and shocks the conscience of all decent people worldwide. In carrying out the largest mass murder of Jewish civilians since the Holocaust, Hamas has shown they are not interested in pursuing peaceful solutions. As leaders in the State of Minnesota, we condemn the heinous acts of terrorism, affirm our unequivocal support for Israel and to the values of peace, security, and justice, and demand an immediate release of all hostages.

Israel is the historical and ancestral homeland of Jewish people going back more than 3,000 years, and we support the safeguarding of their God-given right to their land. Like any sovereign nation, Israel has the fundamental right to defend itself and its citizens from threats and attacks. While facing relentless aggression, the Israeli government has shown remarkable restraint in its efforts to protect its people. It is crucial all peace-loving people support Israel’s right to self-defense, and their mission to fully neutralize all threats to safety and security, including the Islamic terrorist government operating out of the Gaza Strip.

We appreciate the efforts of individuals and organizations advocating for peace and we encourage continued dialogue to promote truth and compassion among all people, regardless of background.

In prayer for the Peace of Jerusalem.”