PRESS RELEASE: American Jewish Congress Strongly Condemns Reps. Rashida Tlaib and Cori Bush Over Call to End U.S. Aid to Israel Amid War with Hamas

New York, NY, October 9, 2023 – The leadership of the American Jewish Congress, including Jack Rosen, President; Dr. Munr Kazmir, Vice President; Daniel Rosen, Vice Chair; Dr. Ben Chouake, Secretary; Michael Melnicke, Treasurer, released today the following statement:
 
“It is with profound concern and indignation that we at the American Jewish Congress condemn the statements made by Reps. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI) and Cori Bush (D-MO), who have callously chosen this moment, in the middle of a war with Hamas and in the aftermath of its heinous terrorist attack, to call for the cessation of U.S. aid to our democratic ally, Israel. Such rhetoric dismisses the weight of the tragedy suffered by innocent Israeli civilians. Let us remember that, by most recent reports, over 900 Israelis are dead, at least 2,500 injured, and more than one hundred taken hostage by Hamas terrorists.
 
We applaud the overwhelming show of bipartisan support from Congress members, in particular the leadership of both the Democratic and the Republican party, and President Biden’s unwavering commitment and resolute support to Israel’s security. This collective stance underscores the importance of the U.S.-Israel relationship and highlights the shared values that bind our two democracies. In stark contrast, the positions espoused by Representatives Tlaib and Bush, and their lack of condemnation for Hamas’ terrorist acts, mark a new low. This at a time when even other members of the “Squad,” such as Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-MN), condemned the aggression of Hamas.
 
Considering the extremity of their views, which stand in direct opposition to the sentiments of most of their colleagues, including those within their own party, we believe it is important for the Democratic Party to critically assess whether such divisive and alarming rhetoric aligns with the party’s guiding principles.
 
The American Jewish Congress remains more committed than ever to a secure Israel and a robust U.S.-Israel relationship. We will continue to call on all elected officials, irrespective of their party affiliations, to denounce any form of rhetoric that jeopardizes the safety, security, and well-being of Israel and its citizens. We are heartened by the outpour of support for Israel, both in the United States and around the world. Israel will prevail again against the forces of terror.”