WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressmen Dean Phillips (D-MN) and Tom Reed (R-NY), along with U.S. Senators Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Rob Portman (R-OH), have introduced a resolution in both the Senate and House of Representatives to honor the life, legacy and example of former Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin, who was assassinated 25 years ago on November 4, 1995 for his pursuit of peace between Israelis and Palestinians. The lawmakers express support for community leaders and government officials who continue to encourage co-existence and cooperation between the Israelis and Palestinians and reaffirms strong United States’ support for “two states—a democratic Jewish State of Israel, and a viable, democratic Palestinian state—living side-by-side in peace, security, and mutual recognition.”
“As a Jewish American, I am a proud supporter of Israel, our most important ally in the Middle East,” Rep. Phillips said. “Yitzhak Rabin dedicated his life to Israeli prosperity and security, and ultimately gave his life in pursuit of peace with its neighbors. Like Rabin, I believe that Israel must remain a Jewish and democratic nation, and exist peacefully alongside a democratic Palestinian state. Today, on occasion of the 25th anniversary of his assassination, I honor his memory by calling on nations of the world to join together in building the bridges of understanding and cooperation to achieve that end.”
“Yitzak Rabin’s legacy is one of hope and peace overcoming generations of mistrust and violence. Over the course of his lifetime, Rabin experienced personal and political transformations that led to his courageous fight for peace, for which he paid the ultimate price. It is this courage and vision of two states for two peoples that we must continue to embrace and make real,” said Senator Cardin. “The special relationship between Israel and the United States remains strong and it is a driving force in our desire to see a lasting peace in the region.”
“I am proud to introduce this bipartisan resolution honoring the life and legacy of Yitzhak Rabin. He dedicated his life to the cause of peace and security for our ally Israel by defending his nation against all threats, including terrorism and invasion, and undertaking courageous risks in the pursuit of peace,” said Senator Portman. “This resolution honors his efforts and upholds his memory, while reaffirming the continued support for the close ties and special relationship between the United States and Israel.”
“As one of our closest allies and a great friend to United States, it is only fair that we continue to stand with the nation of Israel and its people,” said Rep. Reed. “This bipartisan resolution makes clear the country’s deep appreciation for the selfless actions and sacrifices made by Yitzhak Rabin over the course of his incredible life. We will continue to stand on the side of democracy and always lift up those willing to dedicate their lives to the pursuit of long-lasting peace in the Middle East.”
House cosponsors of the resolution include: Jamie Raskin (D-MD), Ted Deutch (D-FL), Jan Schakowsky (D-IL), Karen Bass (D-CA), and Eliot Engel (D-NY).
The text of the resolution can be found at this link.