Today, in response to a lawsuit filed by the ACLU challenging a Texas law that imposes penalties on those who call for boycott of Israel or Israeli settlements, and in response to efforts in the U.S. Senate to include such legislation in the year-end appropriations bill, 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 our colleagues at the ACLU who continue to challenge this legislation in court, and with brave leaders at all levels of government, including Senators Bernie Sanders and Dianne Feinstein, who are speaking out to oppose these policies.

“Make no mistake: this is an Israeli settler policy designed 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.”

For interviews or additional information, please contact Sharon Goldtzvik: 202.500.6362 (USA/WhatsApp) or [email protected]