For more than half a century, American leaders have opposed Israeli settlement expansion, and for more than half a century, that opposition has been ignored. Today, 640 Israeli settlements and outposts stand across the West Bank, each one an obstacle to a viable Palestinian state and lasting peace.

Meanwhile, militant settlers are escalating their campaign to violently drive Palestinians from their homes, acting with impunity, as the Israeli government shows little willingness to crack down on these crimes.

The Stop the Settlements Act, introduced by Representative Joaquin Castro, would sanction entities that support or facilitate the construction of new settlements and outposts in the West Bank and ban the import of goods produced in settlements.

This legislation draws a clear distinction between supporting the State of Israel and opposing the occupation and settlement expansion beyond the Green Line.

It’s time for our words to have consequences. We urge you to take action against the settlement enterprise and co-sponsor the Stop the Settlements Act.

Sincerely,
The undersigned