Standing With Israel

Statement

As you may know, earlier this week conflict broke out between Israel and a flotilla headed for Gaza.

I believe that Israel was forced to take an unfortunate but necessary defensive action to protect its citizens. Threatened with an incursion by so-called "humanitarian" groups sympathetic to a regime recognized by the U.S. Department of State as a foreign terrorist organization, Israel prevented a flotilla of activists from breaking a blockade into Gaza. While I regret the loss of life associated with the ongoing turmoil, Israel simply cannot be expected to stand idly by while its security is challenged and internationally-recognized channels for aid delivery are ignored.

I believe that Israel's need to protect its citizens from existential threats -- especially from terrorist organizations committed to its destruction -- is paramount. Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran have time and again ignored Israeli peace overtures and continue to call for Israel's destruction.

The United Nations' immediate condemnation of Israel reveals the depth and intensity of an international double-standard that seeks to blame Israel first while ignoring Hamas' and Hezbollah's civilian targeting, as well as Iran's obvious attempts to acquire nuclear weapons.

Unfortunately, this will likely not be the last time that terrorist organizations -- under the guise of humanitarian aid -- seek to provoke Israel. As much of the world turns the other way, my support for Israel remains steadfast in its struggle for security until a lasting peace is achieved in the Middle East.

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