Statement by Republican 22nd Congressional Candidate Allen West on Situation in Israel

(Deerfield Beach, FL) “Recent developments in the State of Israel are disturbing, and unfortunately predictable. Since 2009, the Obama Administration has shown an unprecedented disregard for the sovereignty of the State of Israel – America’s strongest ally in the world. Whether browbeating Israel for building homes in their rightful capitol, or disrespecting Prime Minister Netanyahu at the White House, President Obama has clearly demonstrated that he is no friend of the Jewish State.

Liberals in Congress, including Ron Klein, have provided nothing but lip service while the rest of the world continues to condemn a nation’s right to defend itself against continued terror and aggression by Hamas – a terror organization whose very charter calls for the destruction of the State of Israel – and its supporters. A blockade is a recognized and accepted means to mitigate specific threats from our enemies. This can be demonstrated by President Kennedy’s blockade in October of 1962 off the coast of Florida, as well as by President Obama’s call for a blockade of Iran. How would we react if these were U.S. Navy SEALs that were ruthlessly attacked?
In the days and weeks ahead, our friends in Israel – the only true and stable democracy in the Middle East – need more than words from America’s leaders. Above all, the Jewish State needs stronger representation in Congress and a solid voice that will not be afraid to stand up to the Obama Administration’s appeasement of Islamic Terrorism. As a Combat Veteran who has faced our common enemy, my commitment to Israel will rise above mere statements of support.”