Earlier today, I was honored to stand in the East Room of the White House as President Trump disclosed the details of his proposal for peace in the Middle East.
The plan reflects a realistic and sincere approach to bringing peace to the region. Israel’s security is ensured, Jerusalem remains undivided, Biblical holy sites remain open to all and under Israel’s sovereignty, and the Palestinians have a clear path towards a peaceful future.
Despite the benchmarks for the Palestinian leadership being low, the Palestinian Authority (PA)rejected the deal before, during and after it was announced. Abandoning terrorism, demilitarizing now and in the future, and recognizing Israel as a Jewish State, are the core elements of what the PA must do But they have chosen rejectionism and violence instead.
Conversely, both Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Benny Gantz, the leader of Israel’s other major political party, Blue and White, have enthusiastically welcomed the peace proposal.
This is the sixth time the Palestinians have been offered peace and dismissed it. This cycle cannot continue. Moving forward the PA’s failures will no longer be used to punish Israel. That is why, in spite of the PA refusing to change its behavior, Israel will move forward with key elements of this peace proposal. This will likely include Israel’s annexation of the Jordan River Valley. This critical strip of land ensures Israel will have defensible borders in perpetuity.
Each time the Palestinian leadership rejects a peace proposal, violence ensues. At this critical moment we must focus our efforts to safeguard the US-Israel relationship. Following the PA’s lead, Israel’s detractors here at home will redouble their efforts to demonize the Jewish State, so we too must redouble ours to defend Israel in our churches, communities and on Capitol Hill.
With our 8 million collective voices speaking as one, we can succeed in pushing back against those whose twisted worldview compels them to treat this peace proposal as yet another opportunity to attack the Jewish state. Thank you for your strong support of Israel at this critical juncture.
Blessings to you and those you love,
