RJC Applauds Pres. Trump's Reversal of Settlement Policy

Washington, DC – The Republican Jewish Coalition today responded to Secretary of State Mike Pompeo’s announcement regarding US policy on Israeli settlements in Judea and Samaria, commonly called the West Bank.

RJC National Chairman Senator Norm Coleman said:

We applaud the Trump Administration’s very pro-Israel policy announced today.

This is a historic decision by the Trump Administration, one that recognizes the facts on the ground and the necessity of a negotiated peace between the parties to the conflict.

After long and careful review, the US Government has concluded that Israeli civilian settlements are not inherently illegal under international law. It has long been clear that labeling the settlements as illegal has ostracized Israel and has not moved negotiations forward.

President Trump has demonstrated once again by his actions that he is willing to bring fresh thinking to the most difficult problems. This policy move is in line with American support for a negotiated peace that will guarantee the security of both Israelis and Palestinians.