Jewish Leaders' Statement on U.S. Israel Relations

Conference of Presidents Chairman and Executive Vice Chairman released the following statement today regarding US-Israel relations:

New York, March 28, 2010….Conference of Presidents Chairman Alan P. Solow and Executive Vice Chairman Malcolm Hoenlein called today for action that reflects the special relationship between the United States and Israel in order to advance the cause of a true peace in the region.  Israel is America’s closest ally and proven reliable friend in the Middle East and differences that may arise should be addressed directly between them in accordance with their historical relationship.  Peace for Israel is an obsession as it has proven repeatedly.

The U.S. and Israel work together on a daily basis and cooperate in many areas-including research, diplomacy, military coordination and economic cooperation, all of which are too rarely heralded.  Moreover, the American people in poll after poll show that they stand with Israel in overwhelming numbers.  While recent studies show an increasing isolationist trend, the sole exception is in regard to Israel.  Americans understand that the common bonds rooted in shared values and interests are of far greater importance than any temporary differences.  For more than 60 years the relationship has grown and become increasingly beneficial to both the United States and Israel.  We note with appreciation and support the bipartisan letter to the Secretary of State signed by more three quarters of the members of the House of Representatives, as well as a similar letter circulating in the Senate, that call for issues between Israel and the US to resolved “quietly, in trust and confidence, as befits longstanding strategic allies.”

Unfortunately, a number of reports have circulated recently with the apparent intention of driving a wedge between the U.S. and Israel.  There have been many misreports and mischaracterizations that serve only to embolden both the enemies of the U.S. and Israel as well as of peace.  We welcome the clarification by General David Petraeus in which he thoroughly denied the reports attributed to him regarding the consequences of the strong relationship between the U.S. and Israel.  The mischaracterization of his position has been exploited by those seeking to undermine the relationship between allies.  His position is clear and should cause those who have incorrectly reported his beliefs to assess the unfortunate consequences of their inaccurate reporting.  The American people and our friends in Israel deserve better. 

The media continues to overlook the significant steps taken by the government of Israel led by Prime Minister Netanyahu in the past year including the removal of hundreds of roadblocks, the weekly shipment of 500 truckloads of food in addition to fuel and gas into Gaza, the 10-month suspension of construction in the West Bank and his declaration endorsing a two-state solution.  This is in contrast to the continuing provocation and incitement on the part of the Palestinian Authority including multiple tributes to Dahlal Mugrahbi who murdered 37 Israelis, including 13 children, and an American in a brutal terrorist attack.  The most recent dedication was during Vice President Biden’s visit in the presence of Fatah officials.  Since that time there has been the inaccurate depiction of the re-dedication of an historic synagogue in Jerusalem and the call for a day of rage that led to violence and unrest.  On top of this, President Abbas continues to refuse to participate in direct negotiations and constantly raises new conditions, apparently based on the belief that the Quartet or its members will support his position.  

At the end of the today’s cabinet meeting, Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed the strength of the U.S.-Israel relationship and denounced reports that in any way denigrate President Obama or the Administration.  The U.S. and Israel should work together to strengthen the relationship that is essential to both countries and the region.

While Iran accelerates its march towards nuclear weapons, including reports of new facilities for enrichment of uranium, and threatens to expand its aggressive actions further beyond its borders, it is imperative that there be a united committed stance that will bring meaningful action including prompt implementation of effective sanctions.  Iran can only welcome the appearance of public reports of disagreements between two great democratic allies, Israel and the U.S.

As we approach the Passover holiday, we are reminded of the preciousness of freedom and the importance of the struggle against those who seek to oppress.  We are commanded to remind ourselves of the lessons of history from ancient days to modern times, and how we must confront forces of evil that arise in every generation. 

We wish everyone a happy and meaningful Passover as we recall the ancient declaration:  Next Year in Jerusalem... a Jerusalem at peace with security for all who dwell there.