I am proud to have co-sponsored House Concurrent Resolution 30, which passed the House this week with an overwhelming vote. Sponsored by House Speaker Dean Plocher, the measure reaffirms our unwavering support for the State of Israel.
Through this resolution, the General Assembly acknowledges and commends Israel for its enduring and mutually beneficial relationship with the United States of America and the state of Missouri since 1948. The General Assembly reaffirms its unflinching support for Israel’s right to exist and recognizes Jerusalem as the eternal capital of Israel. Additionally, the General Assembly stands firmly in support of Israel’s efforts to defend its citizens and combat the threats posed by Hamas. Missouri further affirms Israel’s inherent right to wage war against these threats until they are completely eradicated.
Missouri holds Hamas accountable for all civilian casualties, recognizing Israel’s efforts to eliminate terrorists and protect innocent lives. The General Assembly urges the United States government to continue standing with the people of Israel in their time of need.
This resolution aims to counter the rise of antisemitism and underline Israel’s inherent right to defend itself against terrorist threats. This resolution supports Israel following the tragic events of Oct. 7, which saw the loss of 1,200 Israeli lives and the kidnapping of hundreds more. This was just the latest act of barbarism by Hamas, which has been targeting innocent civilians, including children and women, for over 30 years.
My personal connection to this issue is deep. Nearly 20 years ago, I was in Israel when a suicide bomb went off, tragically taking the lives of 12 people. This resolution supporting Israel is not just a political stance for me; it’s a deeply held belief in the rights of a sovereign nation to defend itself against such heinous acts.
We must not overlook, as President Biden appears to have done, that American hostages are still being held captive by Hamas. I share the concerns of Republican members of the U.S. Senate regarding President Biden’s proposal to admit Gazan refugees into the United States. Until the administration addresses these concerns and prioritizes efforts to secure the release of American hostages, it should halt its plans to accept Gazan refugees. Even then, we must proceed with extreme caution. From an early age, young Gazans are often indoctrinated with hatred towards Israel, America, and the Western world. Allowing them into our country poses an enormous risk to our national security. I doubt there is a reliable process to distinguish well-meaning Gazans from those who wish us harm.
It saddens me to see how partisan politics have affected bipartisan support for Israel, the only democracy in the Middle East. Historically, support for Israel has been a matter of bipartisan consensus. However, the recent vote on HCR 30 saw almost exclusive support from Republicans. The Democrat party’s failure to endorse this resolution is disappointing, to say the least.
It is disheartening to see protests at universities against Israel’s actions. What’s even more concerning is the influence of people like George Soros and other Democrat donors who fund these demonstrations.
In closing, I want to reaffirm my support for Israel. May God bless and keep you and our great nation.
Hardy Billington represents District 152, which includes Butler County.