Français
Español
English
Portuguese
Smith also warned that some advocates for ending U.S. support for Israel reject the country’s right to exist.
By Shula Rosen
Rep. Adam Smith, D-Wash., said anti-Israel activists targeted him, his family, and members of his staff while campaigning for an end to U.S. military aid to Israel, even as he voted in favor of legislation that would halt U.S. military assistance to the country.
Smith said he supported Rep. Thomas Massie’s proposal to cut aid to Israel but described the vote as difficult because he continues to back Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran.
“This was a very close vote for me. I am a supporter of Israel, and I recognize they are under profound existential threat. We should not forget October 7th or the reality that Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran want to eliminate Israel,” Smith said.
He also warned that some advocates for ending U.S. support for Israel reject the country’s right to exist.
“I also recognize that many of those who want the U.S. to completely abandon Israel do not support Israel’s right to exist and are willfully blind to the dangerous, violent, extremist beliefs of Hamas and others who threaten Israel.”
Smith said he and those around him had been subjected to intimidation during the debate over aid to Israel.
“I am deeply concerned about the tactics used by those on the far left to advocate for cutting off aid to Israel. To date, my family and I have had our home vandalized, a fire has been set in my driveway, my neighbors’ lives have been disrupted by demonstrations in the middle of the night, town halls meant to be forums for dialogue have been shut down, and a staff member has been physically assaulted. Those who engage in this type of behavior model a dangerous form of corrosive politics that seeks to intimidate those who disagree with them. We must be able to have civil discourse if we want to solve difficult problems, and I remain committed to open, respectful engagement.”
Despite reaffirming his support for Israel, Smith criticized Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government and its military policy.
“Despite my support for Israel, for over two years I have been incredibly frustrated by Prime Minister Netanyahu’s government and its total war approach in Gaza, the West Bank, Lebanon, and even at times in Syria.”
Smith also acknowledged that, in his view, “Many of the people calling for a ceasefire on October 8th were people who wanted Hamas to succeed in destroying Israel,” while adding that he could not support policies that result in endless war.
Do You Love Israel? Make a Donation - Show Your Support!
Donate to vital charities that help protect Israeli citizens and inspire millions around the world to support Israel too!
Now more than ever, Israel needs your help to fight and win the war -- including on the battlefield of public opinion.
Antisemitism, anti-Israel bias and boycotts are out of control. Israel's enemies are inciting terror and violence against innocent Israelis and Jews around the world. Help us fight back!
