Danny K. Davis

04/30/2024 | Press release | Distributed by Public on 04/30/2024 16:03

STATEMENT FROM US REPRESENTATIVE DANNY K. DAVIS REGARDING THE ISRAELI-PALESTINIAN CONFLICT

As a Congressional representative, I am deeply committed to peace and justice both domestically and internationally, and I am particularly concerned about the ongoing violence between Israel and Palestinians in Gaza, where thousands of innocent civilians, especially Palestinians, are bearing the brunt of brutal, unfathomable violence.

While Israel has a legitimate right to defend itself from the terrorist organization, Hamas, and from the recent attacks by Iran, Palestinians have the right to resist occupation and seek self-determination. This long-standing conflict between these rival forces is highly complex and volatile, and the loss of civilian lives, particularly among the Palestinian population, is deeply distressing.

We cannot ignore the root causes of this Mideastern conflict, including the ongoing occupation and blockade of Gaza, which have contributed to the cycle of violence and suffering for both Israelis and Palestinians. However, the hardline approach taken by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, at the very least, is disappointing as overt aggression tends to exacerbate tension and undermine prospects for peace. I have said before and say again that I believe the only viable course of action is a two-state solution. Both the Israelis and the Palestinians should have the opportunity to live in peace and security within their sovereign states.

I urge the immediate cessation of the war-like atmosphere and practices that continue to perpetuate violence and great suffering in the Middle East. I further urge these three measures:

1. All parties and stakeholders, including moderate voices within both Israeli and Palestinian communities, must prioritize diplomacy and negotiation rather than resorting to further violence and bloodshed.2. The International community must continue to assist in advancing the cause of peace.3. The United States must renew its global commitment to justice and the dignity of every human being. It must use its power and influence to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and a just resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict-including supporting efforts toward a two-state solution. Given the widespread unrest across the nation and especially on college campuses, it is imperative that all parties acknowledge the urgency dictated by warring factions and work immediately toward de-escalation. I am reminded of Ralph Bunch, who, in 1950, in his role as head of a UN peace-seeking Palestinian commission, negotiated an armistice between the then-new state of Israel and Arab nations. Today, with the United States serving as the preeminent catalyst, we must again negotiate and find a path toward a peaceful and sustainable solution.

In Congress, I have consistently supported funding for our allies, including Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, to ensure their security and stability in the face of external threats. Moving forward, I remain committed to working toward a just and lasting peace in the Middle East and an agreement that respects the rights and aspirations of all parties involved.