Statement from Rep. Schiff on his Support for Israel and Opposition to the House GOP’s Latest Gambit
Washington, D.C.— Today, Representative Adam Schiff (D-Calif.) released the following statement on his support for Israel and his concern with the House Republicans’ latest effort to politicize Israel’s security.
“As a steadfast supporter of Israel, I am grateful for the Biden Administration’s efforts to help Israel defend itself in the wake of the October 7th Hamas terrorist attack that involved the rape, torture, and murder of over 1,200 people, including Americans. I also deeply appreciate the Administration’s efforts to meet the humanitarian needs of the people of Gaza who are cynically being used by Hamas as human shields.
“I have pressed the Administration to answer whether it is opposed to Israel going into Rafah at all – effectively giving Hamas battalions and leadership hiding there a safe haven – or whether it is instead insisting that prior to any major ground offense Israel must have a plan for evacuation. In my view, the former would be problematic, and the latter necessitated by the moral obligation to protect civilians.
“During my conversations with senior officials at the National Security Council, I am reassured that the Administration recognizes the imperative of ending Hamas rule and denying its leadership and military refuge anywhere in Gaza — including in Rafah — even as it is determined to protect against the loss of innocent life.
“I appreciate President Biden’s dedication to Israel’s security and to bringing the hostages home, and I’m particularly glad to see the Administration move forward on $1 billion in aid for Israel this week. Unfortunately, despite America’s traditionally nonpartisan support for our most important ally in the region, House Republicans continue to try to use Israel as a political cudgel. This bill is just their latest attempt to do so.”
Background on Schiff’s Work to Support Israeli Security, Push for Humanitarian Aid
Schiff has repeatedly reinforced his unwavering support for Israel, both in the days immediately following the October 7th attack, and working to secure critical security assistance in the months since. Last month, he voted for the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, which allocated over $26 billion to support Israel and provide humanitarian relief to Gaza.
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