Post by bot on Dec 4, 2016 20:34:26 GMT -5
Hoyer Statement on the Passage of Israel Legislation
WASHINGTON, DC – House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement tonight after the House of Representatives passed two bills to address Israel's security and a resolution supporting Israelis as they pursue peace in the region:
“I strongly support today’s bipartisan resolution reaffirming that the only way to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict is through direct, bilateral negotiations between the parties. Attempts to impose a solution through international fora like the United Nations only erode trust and fail to recognize the complexities of issues that need to be worked out by Israelis and Palestinians together. There are no shortcuts to achieving the goal of Middle East peace. The United States will continue to oppose efforts like the boycott-divestment-sanctions (BDS) movement that seek to place the full burden of taking steps for peace on Israel when it has been Palestinian leaders who have continued to sow violence and mistrust and cultivate alliances with extremist groups bent on killing innocent Israelis.
“I’m proud to be part of a broad, bipartisan coalition in Congress that stands up for our ally Israel and works to ensure that Israelis have the support they need to pursue a secure peace that will bring safety and opportunity to all people in the region. I thank Ranking Member Engel and Chairman Royce for their work to pass this resolution through the House today. I am also pleased the House passed two bills today that will enhance U.S.-Israel cooperation on advanced research and cybersecurity, both critical for achieving the security and economic goals of both our nations.”