The U.S. House of Representatives approved by a resounding 412-9 margin on Tuesday a symbolic resolution denouncing antisemitism and reaffirming America’s longstanding alliance with the State of Israel.
“The State of Israel is not a racist or apartheid state,” H. Con. Res. 57 — which can be read in full here — said. “Congress rejects all forms of antisemitism and xenophobia; and the United States will always be a staunch partner and supporter of Israel.”
The resolution — introduced by Congressman August Pfluger (TX-11) — was passed a day before Israeli President Isaac Herzog delivered an address a joint meeting of Congress.
“Israel is our most important partner in the Middle East,” Pfluger stated. “As Congress welcomes Israeli President Herzog, we affirm that Congress stands with Israel and unequivocally supports our Jewish communities.”
Last week, Congresswoman Pramila Jayapal (WA-07) faced backlash after she asserted Israel was a “racist state.” Jayapal later amended her comment, saying, “I do not believe the idea of Israel as a nation is racist.” However, she still accused the current Israeli government of engaging in “discriminatory and outright racist policies.”
Israel is the sole inclusive democracy in the Middle East and its nearly two million Arab citizens enjoy full and equal rights.
Despite @RepJayapal’s apology, the baseless claim that Israel is a “racist state” is far too prevalent in society today and must be strongly refuted.… pic.twitter.com/DBPOebFRbb
— Combat Antisemitism Movement (@CombatASemitism) July 17, 2023
In his speech to Congress on Wednesday, Herzog said, “Criticism of Israel must not cross the line into negation of Israel’s right to exist. Questioning the Jewish people’s right to self-determination is not legitimate diplomacy. It is antisemitism. Vilifying and attacking Jews, whether in Israel, in the United States, or anywhere in the world, is antisemitism.”
The nine lawmakers who voted against Tuesday’s resolution were: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (NY-14), Rashida Tlaib (MI-12), Jamaal Bowman (NY-16), Summer Lee (PA-12), Ilhan Omar (MN-5), Cori Bush (MO-1), Andre Carson (IN-7), Delia Ramirez (IL-3), and Ayanna Pressley (MA-7).
