US House approves resolution affirming "Israel's" 'right to exist'
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The US House of Representatives overwhelmingly approved a resolution affirming "Israel's" 'right to exist', with a majority vote of 412 to 1.
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The US Capitol is seen on Friday, Nov. 3, 2023, in Washington. (AP)
The US House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed a resolution on Wednesday at dawn, H. Res. 888, affirming the Israeli occupation's "right to exist", with a majority vote of 412 to 1.
Representative Thomas Massie (R-KY) cast the sole "No" vote, citing concerns about the language used in the legislation.
“I agree with the title ‘Reaffirming the State of Israel’s Right to Exist’ and much of the language, but I’m voting No on the resolution because it equates anti-Zionism with antisemitism. Antisemitism is deplorable, but expanding it to include criticism of Israel is not helpful,” he argued.
On the other hand, Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-MI), the “Squad” member known for her support for Gaza, voted “present”. Another Squad member, Rep. Cori Bush (D-MO) did not vote.
The resolution was submitted by Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY).
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The resolution states that “the House of Representatives:
1 - Reaffirms the State of "Israel’s" right to exist;
2 - Recognizes that denying "Israel’s" right to exist is a form of antisemitism;
3 - Rejects calls for "Israel’s" destruction and the elimination of the only Jewish State; and
4 - Condemns the Hamas-led "terrorist attack" on "Israel"
“My resolution H. Res 888 is simple and straightforward - Israel has a right to exist. I was pleased to see this resolution pass the House tonight with broad bipartisan support,” Lawler said after the vote.
Earlier this month, the House of Representatives passed a resolution expressing support for "Israel" in its aggression on Gaza, with a majority vote of 412 to 10.
Nine of the ten “no” votes were by Democrats: Bush, Jamaal Bowman, Andre Carson, Al Green, Summer Lee, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Ilhan Omar, Delia Ramirez, and Tlaib. The lone Republican no vote was from Massie.
This resolution marked the House's initial passage following the election of Rep. Mike Johnson (R-LA) as its incoming Speaker.
