We are living in an unprecedented time – a time in which the most radical settler elements of Israeli society sit at its helm, empowered by Prime Minister Netanyahu to eviscerate its democratic foundations. And such a time demands an unprecedented response. We collectively support the demands for a hostage deal, ceasefire, and a long-term, political solution to the conflict and oppose Netanyahu’s disastrous tenure. Consequently, we wish to say loud and clear: Israel’s sitting Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, is not welcome here.
We agree with Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer when he said that Netanyahu is an obstacle to peace, and that he “has lost his way by allowing his political survival to take precedence over the best interests of Israel.” This is a leader who is putting himself first; not his country. For the vast majority of American Jews, and anyone who wants to see a democratic future for Israel, it is our obligation to voice protest against Netanyahu in DC this week, and to show up to demonstrate our support for Israelis and Palestinians.
In demonstrating against him, we are also joining nearly three quarters of all Israelis who believe Netanyahu should resign. We are reflecting the urgency to end the war in Gaza and bring the hostages home, and around the feelings of insecurity for all Israelis, Palestinian and Jewish, and the fear of the American Jewish public that Israel will devolve into a pariah state. The time is now, and it is urgent.
The Progressive Israel Network brings together twelve organizations representing Americans who are committed to pursuing democracy, equality and peace in Israel. The coalition provides a strong, unified voice in support of its members’ common goals: democracy and equal rights, religious freedom and pluralism, and a two-state solution that would secure a peaceful future for Israel and an end to a military occupation now well into its sixth decade. Our full statement of principles can be found here.
Ameinu
Americans for Peace Now
Habonim Dror North America
J Street
New Israel Fund
New York Jewish Agenda
Partners for Progressive Israel
T’ruah: The Rabbinic Call for Human Rights
