On the recordJuly 23, 2019
Today we will be taking up a resolution to denounce the BDS movement, the boycott, divestment, and sanctions against Israel. This region is not unfamiliar to me, as I have been there twice, in both Israel and Palestine. I do not support the BDS movement. When I was last in Palestine, I asked multiple people with whom I met if they supported the movement, and the response was that they did not, as they were afraid of the economic effect on Palestine, where many are already struggling. However, I also do not support the resolution today, as it goes too far, in my opinion, in telling people what they can or should think or say about the situation in Israel. Israel the country and the Israeli people are good friends of the United States. They are a strong democracy and a close ally of our country. I have supported the Iron Dome as a way to deescalate the tensions that occur when a rocket is sent into Israel from inside Gaza, for example. It is better to take out that missile before there is any damage or death rather than returning a volley of rockets back in response, injuring or killing people of both countries. But I also think it is okay to be critical of the Netanyahu administration, or government, and their policies. Look, if a dear friend does something that jeopardizes themselves or their family's lives or livelihoods, I have a moral obligation to say something because I respect my friend. It should be no different with our response to Israel.…
