WASHINGTON, D.C. (Press Release)–Congresswoman Nita Lowey (D-NY), ranking Democrat on the Appropriations State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee, Monday issued the following statement about this weekend’s events in the Middle East:
“This weekend’s events in the Middle East illustrate once again the existential threats Israel faces. As protesters rebel against authoritarian regimes throughout the Middle East, the prospect of hostility and violence against Israel – the only democracy in the region – is real and dangerous.
“Israel is a sovereign nation with every right to defend its borders from incursions or attacks originating in Syria, Lebanon, or within Palestinian-controlled Gaza and the West Bank.
“It is not surprising that President Assad is using Palestinian protesters to distract from the democratic uprising that is occurring within Syria’s own borders. But it nonetheless displays a shocking level of cynicism to risk provoking war in order to maintain a grasp on power. President Assad must end the violent crackdown in Syria, stop his collaboration with Iran, and respect Israel’s right to exist.”
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Preceding provided by Congresswoman Lowey