WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congresswoman Debbie Dingell (D-MI) made the following statement before a House vote on a resolution reaffirming Congress’ support to a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict:
“It is critical that we take serious steps to reiterate the United States’ commitment toward a just, two-state solution to the conflict that allows both Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, side-by-side. Unfortunately, recent developments have put this vision, which remains the only viable framework for a lasting peace in the region, further out of reach. Settlement activity in the West Bank has increasingly threatened the viability of a future Palestinian state in the region, and there is now open talk of Israeli annexation of the Jordan Valley. Settlements erode any possibility of a contiguous, viable Palestinian state.
“Additionally, the Trump administration’s recent move to overturn decades of US policy and legitimize this settlement activity represents a body blow to future peace and prosperity. In addition, the Trump Administration’s policies have discredited valid Palestinian claims to also have their capital in Jerusalem. We also cannot forget the humanitarian situation in Gaza, which is untenable. This demands a response and is why this resolution is necessary – to underscore, more than ever, the United States’ commitment to peace and the right of self-determination not just in the Middle East, but around the world.
“Peace is never easy, and we must be clear-eyed about the obstacles that remain in resolving this conflict. However, we cannot abandon our commitment to a just, two-state solution – doing so would have catastrophic consequences for Israelis, Palestinians, and the region as a whole.”
Video of her statement is available here.