Today, in response to Congressional efforts to pass a bill that would penalize Americans who call for boycott of Israel or Israeli settlements, Daniel Sokatch, CEO of the New Israel Fund, released the following statement:

“Anyone who cares about a democratic Israel understands that legislation that gags free speech opposing settlements is just wrong. I’m proud to stand with all those who are bravely standing up to this Israeli settler policy.

“Make no mistake: this policy was designed by Israel’s extremist right wing to ensure that there will never be a two-state solution.

“It harms Israel and it harms fundamental freedoms in America. Any friend of democracy, and any friend of Israel — including those of us who do not support BDS — must, in good conscience, oppose this and any gag bill that silences dissent and erases the Green Line.”