AIPAC POSITION PAPER
Sep 6, 2016Support for Israel remains a vital component of American foreign policy. Indeed, our strategic vision depends on key alliances throughout the globe, especially in the Middle East.
But the American-Israeli relationship goes deeper than mere geopolitical concerns. It is a bond based on the shared values of religious and cultural liberty, economic prosperity and, perhaps most important, the rule of law.
I have always believed that the foundation of support for the Jewish state rests on the twin pillars of Israel’s inherent right to exist as well as dismissing the idea that millions of refugees could reclaim property in what is now Israel. There is no legal ‘right of return.’
Only from there can solutions be found to the myriad of other issues facing the region.
For example, while I believe demographics dictate a two-state solution between Israel and the Palestinians (the best way for Israel to remain both Jewish and democratic), the only way to achieve lasting peace is through bilateral negotiations and not those imposed by outside interests.
I also oppose any attempts by the international community to divest itself or boycott the state of Israel. As a Congressman, I will not support these misguided efforts abroad and vigorously oppose them at home.
With a national debt approaching $20 trillion, America is financially teetering on the brink and that’s why I believe across the board federal spending reductions are necessary. But Israel should not be put at a foreign aid or security assistance disadvantage in the region. Therefore, reductions in America’s foreign aid budget should be directed at those counties who are supporting terrorism in the region and abroad.
Supporting Israel also means closely monitoring the Iranian nuclear accord. A number of Israeli military and intelligence professionals supported negotiations (IDF commander General Gadi Eizenkot backed the deal as ‘real change..a strategic turning point.’) as way for Israel to focus more on combating Iranian support for Hezbollah and Hamas. But this is predicated on Tehran adhering to all provisions reducing enrichment and stockpiles, as well as complying with inspections. Any violations should be met with a reimposition of sanctions by the U.S.
After Brussels, Paris, San Bernardino, and Orlando, Sunni extremism in the form of ISIS—and those who support it—must also be defeated. That’s why I have called for the release of the 28 redacted pages of the 2002 Joint Inquiry into Intelligence Community Activities Before and After the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001 which may implicate those countries who have been materially supporting terrorism since the attack on the World Trade Centers.
For nearly 70 years America has enjoyed special relations with the state of Israel. If I am elected to Congress, I will work to ensure those relations stay that way for the next 70 years as well.
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