In response to the Jan. 9 letter titled “Why I won’t vote for Suozzi,” which grossly
misrepresents Tom Suozzi’s position on Israel, I feel it’s crucial to provide accurate context
regarding Suozzi’s unequivocal support of the Jewish state. Contrary to the assertion in the
letter, Suozzi has consistently been one of Israel’s strongest supporters in Congress.
The author’s criticism that Suozzi’s first speech in Congress pushed for a Palestinian state in the West Bank is inaccurate. In fact, in his inaugural speech, Suozzi stood firmly with Israel by supporting legislation that condemned an anti-Israel UN resolution. In that speech, Suozzi talked about his visit to Israel in 2002 during the Second Intifada and his conversations with Prime Minister Shimon Peres about achieving a lasting peace.
Tom Suozzi has demonstrated throughout his career that he is a true Zionist. His proactive
engagement with Israel, his condemnation of far-left members of his own party, and his support for the Abraham Accords and moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem all underscore his dedication to the security and well-being of Israel and the Jewish people.
I would also like to highlight Suozzi’s recent solidarity mission to Israel after Hamas’ Oct. 7 attacks. During this visit, he met with hostage families and visited Kfar Azza, one of the
hardest-hit communities near the Gaza border. These actions buttress his commitment to
understanding the challenges faced by the people of Israel firsthand.
In an era when maintaining bipartisan support for the U.S.-Israel relationship is crucial, having elected officials like Tom Suozzi, a staunchly pro-Israel Democrat, is more important than ever. His efforts contribute to fostering a bipartisan consensus in support of a strong and enduring alliance between the United States and Israel.
I encourage voters to consider the facts of Tom Suozzi’s pro-Israel record as you weigh your decision in the upcoming election.
Arnie Herz
Port Washington
“…and his support for the Abraham Accords and moving the U.S. Embassy to Jerusalem all underscore his dedication to the security and well-being of Israel and the Jewish people.”
The joke, since about 40% of Americans probably couldn’t find Israel on a map, is that there’s “Jerusalem,” which has always been the seat of the Israeli Government, and there’s “Jerusalem,” which extends beyond what was once the “Green Line.”
“The extension of the municipal boundary of Jerusalem in 1980 was an exception to this position. Although Jerusalem was a part of territory beyond the Green Line that was ruled by Jordan until 1967, Israel declared Jerusalem “complete and united” as the capital of Israel according to the 1980 Basic Jerusalem Law. This claim has not been recognised by any country. ”
The Embassy itself sits practically on top of the Green Line. Just about every other nation keeps it’s diplomatic offices in Tel Aviv, including our allies. However, no one doubted West Jerusalem was the capital of Israel.
Moving the Embassy to “Jerusalem” was a needlessly provocative act, and follows the Trump ethos of humiliating others so people can live vicariously through it. It does not “add to Israeli security.”
Hubris, perhaps. But not security.
FWIW Mr. Suozzi has dutifully attended the annual AIPAC meeting.