Statement from Congressman Dan Goldman on President Biden’s Support of Israel, House Republicans’ Latest Politicization of Israel and Antisemitism

“Since the horrific terror attack on Israel on October 7th, President Biden has demonstrated an ironclad commitment to Israel’s right to defend itself, the vital need to defeat Hamas, the importance of ensuring the release of all those illegally and brutally taken hostage on October 7 — including Americans — and the requirement of providing humanitarian aid to civilians in Gaza.

“After speaking with senior White House officials over the weekend, I am grateful that National Security Advisor, Jake Sullivan, reiterated yesterday the President’s unwavering commitment to the long-term peace and security of our lone democratic ally in the Middle East. In particular, I am pleased that the Administration committed to providing all appropriated aid to Israel and will continue to engage with the Israeli government to craft a comprehensive military and political strategy to defeat Hamas and plan for the aftermath of such a defeat in Gaza.

“Mr. Sullivan also correctly emphasized that it is Hamas — not Israel — that remains the obstacle to a ceasefire deal that would release the hostages and pause the violence, and that there is absolutely no genocide in Gaza. Over the past three months, Israel has worked cooperatively with the United States to delay an incursion into Rafah, increase humanitarian aid, de-escalate conflict with Iran, and acquiesce to Hamas’s ceasefire demands (which Hamas now rejects). I am confident that the Biden Administration and the Israeli government can continue this close collaboration to achieve a satisfactory end to this conflict centered on returning the hostages, defeating Hamas, and surging humanitarian aid.

“Despite this long record of support for Israel, House Republicans yet again intend to use Israel as a political cudgel, which weakens Israel and undermines Israel’s leverage in this conflict — continuing a despicable and shameful pattern of using Israel and Jews as political pawns.

“Republicans’ latest messaging bill does nothing to materially help Israel’s security, fundamentally mischaracterizes the President’s statements and steadfast support for Israel since October 7, and simply requires commitments that the Administration has repeatedly made. As this Congress proved last month when we voted in an overwhelming bipartisan way to fund Israel’s defense, Democrats and the Biden Administration are firmly supporting our ally in its war against Hamas.

“If the Speaker is serious about supporting Israel and combating antisemitism, he should stop politicizing these issues, which undermine support for Israel and use Jews as partisan pawns. Instead of bringing meaningless, misleading, partisan bills to the floor, the Speaker should focus on legislation that can actually solve problems, such as my Showing Up For Students Act to fund enforcement of federal civil rights laws or the bipartisan Countering Antisemitism Act, which would implement President Biden's National Strategy to Counter Antisemitism.

“As an American Jew, I am offended by the politicization and partisan manipulation of these very serious issues. I urge Speaker Johnson to pull this misleading bill from the floor and instead bring up for a floor vote the Showing Up For Students Act and the Countering Antisemitism Act.

“If Speaker Johnson moves ahead with a vote on another false, meaningless and misguided bill, once again choosing to undermine the bipartisan nature of support for Israel, I will vote no.”

###