Senator Ruben Gallego (D-AZ) has introduced a bill imposing sanctions on companies and other entities that participate in Israel's planned E1 program in the West Bank.
The Context
In late August, Sen. Gallego spearheaded a letter to the Israeli government expressing opposition to the project, which would build approximately 1,200 settler homes in the area, writing, "For decades, Republican and Democratic administrations have recognized that development in E1 would seriously jeopardize the prospects for a Palestinian state. That concern remains just as urgent today."
As a result, Sen. Gallego's new bill would impose sanctions on entities that continue the program.
What Lawmakers are Saying
"For decades, Democrats and Republicans alike have pushed for a two-state solution," Sen. Gallego said in a press release, adding, "Proposed Israeli construction of new settlement homes in the E1 area would cut off East Jerusalem from the West Bank and threaten a viable Palestinian state. It's a step in the wrong direction. This legislation sends a clear message to Prime Minister Netanyahu: the United States stands firmly behind a two-state solution as the only path to real peace and security for all."
Senator Chris Coons (D-DE), one of the bill's cosponsors, said, "For decades, American presidents from both parties have warned successive Israeli governments that construction in E1 threatened the viability of a Palestinian state and was unacceptable to the United States."
"As Palestinian civilians face a campaign of devastation and fear from violent extremist settlers, the United States must send a strong message that this behavior is unacceptable and that it remains committed to freedom, security, prosperity and self-determination for all Israelis and Palestinians," Sen. Coons added.
On the Other Side
Arizona State Representative David Livingston (R-28) spoke out against the United Kingdom's planned use of sanctions against Israel for the E1 program in late August, saying, "Israel is a democratic ally facing enemies that openly seek its destruction. Britain should be standing with Israel, not increasing political pressure while terrorism and incitement against Israelis continue."
