Binghamton City Council Passes Gaza Ceasefire Resolution

A resolution calling for a permanent ceasefire in Gaza has been approved unanimously by Binghamton City Council.

All seven council members voted in favor of the measure urging the Biden administration to work for a permanent ceasefire "to prevent further death and humanitarian catastrophe."

The resolution was passed Wednesday evening in front of a large group of people who filled the City Council chamber.

Many of those who attended the meeting spoke before lawmakers voted during an unusually long public comment session. The crowd erupted in applause after council adopted the resolution.

The resolution expresses support for all who have been affected by the armed violence that has resulted in thousands of deaths since the start of fighting between the Israelis and Palestinians last October.

The measure calls on the Biden administration to take action to "facilitate deescalation" and the return of hostages.

The resolution also supports restoration of U.S. funding for the United Nations relief agency for Palestinians.

A copy of the City Council resolution is to be sent to President Biden, Congressman Marc Molinaro, and United States senators Charles Schumer and Kirsten Gillibrand.

The text of the measure also is to be sent to New York Governor Kathy Hochul, state Senator Lea Webb and state Assemblywoman Donna Lupardo.

WATCH: Public comment and remarks by Binghamton City Council members on April 10, 2024.

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Contact WNBF News reporter Bob Joseph: bob@wnbf.com. For breaking news and updates on developing stories, follow @BinghamtonNow on Twitter.