Bush Wrong to Withhold Israel Funds
Listed in: Israel, NJDC News, Press Releases
Washington, DC: According to the Associated Press, "President Bush plans to announce at an economic forum Tuesday that he will not release $5.1 billion officially earmarked for combating terrorism - some of which Congress designated for purposes unrelated to homeland security. Bush signed a $28.9 billion anti-terror emergency 'supplemental' budget measure on Aug. 2, but did not commit to spending the $5.1 billion chunk." Among other earmarks, the $5.1 billion included $200 million in assistance to Israel to help the Jewish state's fight against terrorism.
"Withholding this $200 million in assistance to Israel sends the wrong message to our closest ally in the Middle East in her time of crisis," said National Jewish Democratic Council Executive Director Ira N. Forman. "There have been various ways over time for President Bush to get these emergency funds to Israel, to symbolize our shared struggle against terrorism - but he has not done so.
"President Bush's statements in support of Israel have been deeply appreciated. But backing up America's stated support for Israel with assistance also sends a powerful message.
"This decision by President Bush to withhold assistance to Israel unfortunately sends the wrong message at the wrong time to Israel's enemies around the world."
