U.S. senator Jeff Merkley calls for ceasefire in Gaza

Jeff Merkley, a Democrat representing Oregon, becomes the second U.S. senator who called on Monday for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza.

Merkley’s decision came after “many Americans, including thousands of Oregonians, have raised their voices to say more must be done to stop the carnage,” according to his statement.

He called previously for short-term humanitarian pauses – breaks in conflict to allow food, water and medical support into a region.