Fateh’s Reformist Democratic Faction issues this statement with grave concern over the recent Congress passage of U.S. appropriations bills, which include substantial funding for the military occupation state of Israel. We unequivocally assert that the allocation of these funds stands as an affront to the principles of justice, international law, and a lasting peace in the Middle East.
The allocation of appropriations, comprising an astounding $3.3 billion designated ostensibly as security assistance to Israel but deeply intertwined with supporting military occupation, prompts profound inquiries into the United States’ responsibility in prolonging the troubling status quo marked by the expansion of illegitimate colonial settlements and persistent encroachments upon the internationally acknowledged human and national rights of the Palestinian people.
Dimitri Diliani, Spokesperson for Fateh’s Reformist Democratic Faction, elaborates on the implications of this funding: “It is deeply concerning that the U.S. continues to provide unwavering financial support to the convicted of war crimes state of Israel, regardless of its government’s pursuit of policies that contravene the principles of democracy, justice and human rights. This support not only rewards the Israeli extremist right-wing government’s actions but also fuels the continuation of the oppressive status quo.”
This financial aid serves as an endorsement of the right-wing Israeli governments’ policies, which have sustained the suffering of the Palestinian people for decades. Moreover, it disregards the numerous war crimes committed against Palestinians on daily bases, including the destruction of homes, the expansion of illegal settlements, and the denial of basic rights to Palestinians in the occupied territories in violation of already signed agreements under the U.S. and the international community’s auspices.
The appropriation of funds for Israeli missile defense cooperation and anti-tunneling measures contribute to the continued militarization of the region, rather than fostering an environment conducive to peaceful dialogue and negotiation.
Diliani further underscores the critical nature of this issue: “We call upon the U.S. government to reevaluate its approach and redirect its focus towards achieving a just and lasting solution in the Middle East, one that respects international law and upholds the rights of the Palestinian people.”