The House of Representatives passed resolutions affirming Israel’s right to exist and called for Hamas to release its hostages.
The resolution saying Israel has the right to exist was introduced by Representative Mike Lawler (R-NY).
Only one representative voted against it, Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY).
In a statement on X, Massie said, I agree with the title ‘Reaffirming the State of Israel’s Right to Exist’ and much of the language, but I’m voting No on the resolution because it equates anti-Zionism with antisemitism. Antisemitism is deplorable, but expanding it to include criticism of Israel is not helpful.”
According to the resolution, the House of Representatives:
- Reaffirms the State of Israel’s right to exist
- Recognizes that denying Israel’s right to exist is a form of antisemitism
- Rejects calls for Israel’s destruction and the elimination of the only Jewish State
- Condemns the Hamas-led terrorist attack on Israel
A bipartisan resolution calling for Hamas to release its hostages passed unanimously.
The resolution was introduced by Representative Haley Stevens (D-MI) and says the House:
- Condemns Hamas for its brutal attack on Israel
- Condemns Hamas for the taking of hostages
- Condemns Hamas for threats made against hostages
- Demands that Hamas immediately release all hostages and return them to safety
Recognizes that the taking of hostages is a violation of international humanitarian law - Expresses sympathy to the hostages, wounded, deceased, and their families for this travesty to justice and personal hardship.
In late October, House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) passed a resolution declaring that the United States supports Israel in its conflict with Hamas.
Johnson said that the United States must guarantee that it is “standing with Israel as it defends itself against the barbaric war launched by Hamas and other terrorists.”
