Dear Mr. President:
We write regarding the recent series of deplorable terrorist attacks against innocent Israelis. We are profoundly concerned that the cycle of violent behavior threatens to spiral even further out of control. The situation clearly demands leadership, and we implore you to take decisive steps to stop the incitement and spread of violence.
For more than two decades, the U.S. Congress has been a strong partner in building the institutions that will someday govern an independent Palestinian state, existing side-by-side, in peace and security, with Israel. That is why we have supported billions of dollars in assistance for technical training on security matters, economic development, and humanitarian needs of the Palestinians.
However, this aid is predicated on the Palestinian Authority’s commitment to countering terrorism and pursuing a comprehensive peace with Israel. U.S. law also clearly stipulates that the Palestinian Authority must act to counter the incitement of violence against Israelis in order to continue receiving U.S. assistance.
The recent attacks against Israelis raise serious concerns that the Palestinians are not prepared to coexist peacefully with their neighbor Israel. In addition, the use of degrading images in Fatah or PA produced media as well as inflammatory language used by you and other Palestinian leaders undermine the objectives of our support and threaten to further destabilize an already highly volatile situation.
As the Chairman and Ranking Member of the House Appropriations Committee and the Chairwoman of the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee, we remain resolute in our commitment to these conditions. That is why we urge you to take constructive actions and return to direct negotiations with Israel, which will provide the only path to a viable and durable two-state agreement resulting in security, prosperity, and peace for both sides.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter, and we look forward to your response.
Sincerely,
Nita Lowey
Ranking Member, Committee on Appropriations
Harold Rogers
Chairman, Committee on Appropriations
Kay Granger
Chairwoman, Subcommittee on State, Foreign Operations & Related Programs
Source: U.S. Department of HCA
