2023 Senate Resolution 76

Whereas, Beginning Saturday, October 7, 2023, Hamas terrorists launched unprovoked, cowardly, and heartless attacks against Israel – particularly its civilians – during major holiday festivities. These terrorists went house to house, slaughtering innocent men, women, and children in their own homes, and searching for civilians to murder, rape, and take hostage. They assaulted patrons of an all-night music festival in southern Israel, shooting individuals at point-blank range, looting their belongings, and abducting partygoers. They have kidnapped scores of women, children, and the elderly, including at least one Holocaust survivor. Hundreds have died as a result of these terrorist attacks, including at least eleven Americans and many of other nationalities; and

Whereas, The United States has a strong history of standing in support of Israel, its people, and its democratic and cultural values. The United States was the first country to recognize Israeli statehood in 1948, and the two nations have maintained close ties over the subsequent decades, especially concerning the security of the state of Israel. This stands in stark contrast to certain extremist regimes, which are providing financing and other support for the terrorist organization Hamas; and

Whereas, Michigan has significant ties to the Israeli and broader Jewish communities. According to recent census data, more than 2,500 Israelis live in Michigan, and it is estimated that the state’s Jewish population is around 100,000; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate, That we stand with the people of Israel and fully support Israel’s sovereign right to defend itself with all power and all might, and to seek justice against these and future terrorist threats; and be it further

Resolved, That copies of this resolution be transmitted to the United States Chargé d’affaires for Israel, the President of the United States of America, the President of the United States Senate, the Speaker Pro Tempore of the United States House of Representatives, and the members of the Michigan congressional delegation.