Rep. Bowman says there must be ‘clear distinction’ between Israel’s citizens, government
Congressman Ted S. Bowman (D-TX) joins a growing chorus of voices in the U.S. calling for a distinction to be made between the citizens of Israel and its government.
Bowman spoke at the Democratic National Convention and emphasized the need for a “clear distinction” between the Israeli people and the government that has been in power since the party’s formation.
“Having been on the ground there since 2009, it is clear to me that the Israeli people are brave and kind, that they are resilient and strong, and they are eager for peace,” he said. “Therefore, my colleagues and I believe there must be a clear distinction between Israeli citizens and Israeli government actions and policies that are causing so much strife and hardship in the Holy Land.”
The congressman stressed the need for the U.S. to work to ensure a long-term and just peace for all parties in the region. He also called for an end to the expansion of settlements and the occupation of Palestinian territories.
Bowman’s comments come amid a renewed push for peace negotiations between Israel and Palestine, with U.S. special envoy Jason Greenblatt and UN envoy Nickolay Mladenov set to meet later this month in Cairo to discuss the possibility of resuming long-stalled talks.