Congressman Garcia Statement on HR 3565

Washington, D.C. - Today, Congressman Robert Garcia (CA-42) issued the following statement on HR 3565.

"Prime Minister Netanyahu has stated, 'There will never be a Palestinian state. This place is ours.'

This is an incredibly dangerous and irresponsible statement. Each day brings new horrors from Prime Minister Netanyahu. He and his right-wing government continue their attacks and settlement expansion in the West Bank, with no progress toward a ceasefire in Gaza - which I called for almost two years ago. And we are no closer to freeing the hostages.

Israel must change course, and we must apply real pressure, which is why I'm supporting H.R. 3565, which would limit the transfer of certain offensive weapons to Israel.

This bill will pressure Netanyahu to end this war and to make clear that the United States does not support his actions or government.

I believe in a secure Israeli and Jewish state, free from terror. And a Palestinian state free of Hamas, with self-determination for its people.

My support for this bill comes precisely because Netanyahu's actions are making Israel less safe - both now and in the future. At the same time, I will continue to support programs like the Iron Dome and renewed diplomatic achievements such as the Abraham Accords.

I understand the fear and anguish felt by my Jewish friends and community. Antisemitism is spreading, and is too often ignored or brushed aside. Our strategic goal must be a safe and secure Israel and Palestine - and a country here at home where Jewish Americans, Palestinian Americans, both Christian and Muslim, live free from antisemitism, Islamophobia, and discrimination.

If this war does not end, Netanyahu risks Israel's security and the international support it has long depended on. We must do everything in our power to bring peace and security to the region. We must bring the hostages home and end the suffering. Together, we must build a lasting peace for both Israel and Palestine," said Congressman Robert Garcia.