Democratic Party Slams Divestment from Israel

Washington, DC: At the Democratic National Committee Winter Meeting in Phoenix, Arizona this weekend, the Democratic Party voted unanimously to formally condemn any efforts to boycott or divest from companies doing business in Israel.

Receiving only broad support and sponsored by four DNC vice-chairs, the resolution's preamble notes in part that Israel "remains a close strategic ally of the United States of America," and that "the democratically-elected government of Israel is to be applauded for the recent bold and successful withdrawal from Gaza where Israel made painful sacrifices by relocating more than 9,000 citizens, and abandoning schools, businesses, farms and places of worship in the hopes of peace."

The resolution concludes by declaring the Democratic Party's opposition to divestment from companies doing business in Israel and the Palestinian Authority, and commending those of all faiths who work towards peace. The resolution was co-sponsored by 29 DNC members from across the country, representing a diverse range of states including Alaska, Wyoming, Oklahoma, Arkansas and New Mexico.

"This resolution demonstrates the continuing commitment of the Democratic Party to Israel's physical and economic security," said National Jewish Democratic Council Executive Director Ira N. Forman. "This action by the Democratic Party makes clear exactly where the Party stands: against those who would hurt Israel through boycotts or divestment.

"The width and breadth of support from within the Democratic Party for this resolution is a signal of just how strongly the Party feels about this issue. We are particularly gratified by the continuing strong support from Chairman Dean, as well as the key leadership role taken by Vice-Chair Susan Turnbull in advancing this resolution," Forman added.