Representatives Lois Frankel (D-FL-22) and Jen Kiggans (R-VA-02), co-chairs of the bipartisan Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Caucus, urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio in a letter to ensure women are meaningfully included in post-war decision-making, reconstruction, and reconciliation as the United States works with international partners to implement the Israel–Hamas peace agreement.

“The Women, Peace, and Security Act of 2017—signed into law by President Trump—recognizes that the full participation of women is essential to lasting security and stability,” the lawmakers wrote. “When women participate in peacebuilding and are afforded tools to succeed, societies are safer, more secure, and more prosperous, and peace is more likely to last. “We look forward to working with you to advance our shared goal of a brighter future for Israelis, Palestinians, and the entire region.”

The members emphasized that women in both Israeli and Palestinian communities have experienced profound disruptions to their safety, families, and daily lives, making their perspectives critical to effective recovery and rebuilding.

 

In their letter, Reps. Frankel and Kiggans called on the Department of State to:

• Include women from diverse backgrounds in U.S.-facilitated dialogue on stabilization and recovery;
• Ensure humanitarian and reconstruction efforts reflect women’s priorities, including family reunification, education, infrastructure, and support for children affected by the conflict;
• Encourage international partners to elevate women’s representation in peacebuilding and reconstruction initiatives; and
• Leverage women-led grassroots initiatives, including through funds authorized under the Middle East Partnership for Peace Act (MEPPA), to support trauma recovery, coexistence programs, and community resilience.