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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Announcement on Israeli Settlements Destructive and Ill-Advised

November 18, 2019 – The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is dismayed by US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s announcement today that the US will no longer consider Israeli settlements in the West Bank a violation of international law. Dina B. Charnin, NCJW Director of Israel Policy and Programs, issued the following statement:

“The decision by the Trump administration to derail four decades of bipartisan US policy severely diminishes the prospects for a two-state solution. This is a sharp turn that takes us even farther away from a pragmatic, long-term, negotiated solution leading towards 2-state co-existence between Israelis and Palestinians.

“A majority of those in the American Jewish community envision an Israel that is democratic, just, and a homeland for Jews everywhere. This decision makes that vision much harder to achieve — but not impossible.

“In support of the only reliable way forward to create the conditions for peace and security, we call once again on Congress to quickly pass House Resolution 326, which reiterates the US support for a negotiated two-state solution and opposes unilateral moves by any side, including annexation. We look forward to a time in the near future when honest, creative, deep-feeling and thinking brokers on all sides, including women leaders, can sit and negotiate.”

The National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW) is a grassroots organization of volunteers and advocates who turn progressive ideals into action. Inspired by Jewish values, NCJW strives for social justice by improving the quality of life for women, children, and families and by safeguarding individual rights and freedoms. More information on Facebook and on Twitter.