Congresswoman Laura Richardson Responds To Timing Of Israel's 1,600 Unit Settlement Announcement During VP Biden's Visit And Prior To Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Visit To Washington Next Week

Statement

The following statement is Congresswoman Laura Richardson's response to the unfortunate timing of an Israeli announcement of an East Jerusalem construction project made during Vice President Joe Biden's recent visit to Israel, and the Obama administration's subsequent public criticism of the Israeli government.
"Last week, Vice President Biden visited Israel in the spirit of strengthening the long-standing relationship of the United States and Israel and helping to advocate for a deliberate peaceful future between Israel and the Palestinians.

"While the announcement was admittedly ill-timed, the Prime Minister of Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, stepped forward, acknowledged the misstep and apologized for any offense caused to the administration. I believe it is now critical that efforts on all sides focus on important issues of preventing a nuclear-armed Iran and moving forward in the peace process for two recognized independent states, which can ensure true and lasting peace in the Middle East region.

"When I visited Israel last August, it became clear to me that the United States has a unique opportunity with our allies to spur real dialogue. As the Prime Minister comes to Washington next week, distractions should be put aside in favor of the energy and efforts of peace and security."

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