As American Jews and Israelis living in the Pittsburgh region, many with family and close friends in Israel, we affirm the need for Israel to protect its citizens from aggression. However, we deplore Israel's extreme and brutal attacks in Gaza that have resulted in a humanitarian crisis of immeasurable proportion. These attacks have already caused more than 800 Palestinian fatalities and more than 3,000 wounded. Many are civilians, including small children. In addition, water, food, fuel, and medical supplies are in short supply. Life in Gaza has become intolerable, and even the safety of those in Southern Israel has not been achieved. Israel, like Hamas, has failed to abide by its commitments to a just and lasting peace, even during the recent 6-month cease fire, and Israel's attacks upon Gaza will not achieve that goal, one that must be attained if Israel is to continue to exist. Thus, we urge Israel as well as Hamas to accept the UN Security Council Resolution calling for an immediate cease fire. And we call upon the United States Government to take all steps within its power to effectuate the provisions of the Resolution and then to help move both parties toward true peace. [This petition/letter will be presented to local newspapers and elected officials in Western Pennsylvania and Washington DC during the week of January 12.]