Wednesday, September 28, 2011

“Palestinians' UN Bid for Statehood Undercuts Peace Process, Endangers Security”

U.S. Rep. Don Manzullo (R-IL), Chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific and a member of the Subcommittee on Middle East & South Asia, issued the following statement condemning Palestine’s plan to seek statehood Friday at the United Nations:

 “The Palestinians are playing a dangerous game at the United Nations (UN) by bypassing direct talks with Israel.  The Palestinian attempt undercuts the peace process, challenges Israel’s territorial integrity, and threatens the stability of the entire region.  The United States has spent more than $4 billion of taxpayers’ hard earned money on foreign assistance to the Palestinians over the last 15 years.  I call on Congress and the Administration to review all assistance to the Palestinian Authority immediately to determine when this funding should be stopped.

“The Administration must stand with Congress to send a clear and unmistakable message that seeking statehood at the UN is not only counterproductive, but also endangers Israel’s security.  UN action cannot supplant talks that must take place between the Palestinians and Israel itself.  A vote from the General Assembly will not create peace.”

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