Updated Statement on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict
After conversations with constituents, Jewish and Muslim community leaders, and peace activists this week, I want to offer a clarification on my May 28th statement on the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict.
First of all, I want to emphasize how deeply I feel that all human beings in the world should live in peace and safety, with a positive future to look forward to. As a State Senator, I have been outspoken on issues beyond my Senate district on a variety of international issues, including U.S. foreign policy and its impact on the rest of the world.
Regarding the continued Israeli – Palestinian conflict, I continue to be heartbroken at the loss of life of both Palestinians and Israelis, including the 227 Palestinians and 12 Israelis killed in the most recent period of violence. I think it is critical to recognize the uneven power differential between the Israeli government and Palestinians. I also recognize that the designated terrorist group Hamas is not a partner in peace.
I want to acknowledge that for Jews, Palestinians and Muslims, the very right to exist has not been guaranteed. All of these people have faced dramatic threats to their very survival. As a State Senator proud to serve an increasingly diverse district, I remain vocal in condemning all forms of bigotry, including Anti-semitism and Islamophobia. I am proud to partner with and attend many Jewish, Muslim, Christian, and other religious groups events, and celebrate these faiths’ contributions and traditions.
In Israel and the Palestinian Territories, all Israelis and Palestinians should have the right to live in peace. As Acton Congregation Beth Elohim Rabbi Mike Rothbaum recently wrote, “To put our trust in the gods of militarism and brute strength, to conflate the presence of God with armed combat, is to succumb to idolatry, to assimilate into a culture that conflates might and morality, violence and virtue.” That is why I strongly oppose Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian Territories, any acts of terrorism including by Hamas, and all missile strikes that target civilians.
I am grateful for the conversations I had with many leaders this week on the Israeli – Palestinian conflict and look forward to further dialogue on bringing peace to the Middle East.
