David Paterson just issued a statement defending Israel’s Gaza offensive, saying, “the Israeli people, under constant attack from the Palestinian territories, have a right to protect themselves and I stand with them as they fight to defend the basic rights of humanity.”
Yesterday, Michael Bloomberg forcefully defended the actions taken by Israel, saying, “There’s no such thing as a measured response to terrorism.”
Here’s Paterson’s statement:
“As Americans, we are blessed to live in a democracy which embraces different religions, cultures and ethnicities. More than seven years ago, New Yorkers’ faith in that democracy was tested when we suffered our own tragedy at the hands of terrorists. But we did not let that dark day in our history diminish our resolve to fight for our freedom. We continue to stand in solidarity with those who defend themselves in the pursuit of peace.
“Over the past few days, I have closely monitored the current escalation of violence in Israel and Gaza. I hope and pray for a peaceful solution for both sides and I strongly condemn Hamas for breaking the current ceasefire. I believe the Israeli people, under constant attack from the Palestinian territories, have a right to protect themselves and I stand with them as they fight to defend the basic rights of humanity.
“I traveled to Israel in 2007 and I discovered firsthand what I had always known to be true – Israel is an extraordinary democracy blessed with very courageous citizens who refuse to live their lives in fear. New Yorkers have experienced the horror of terrorism; we must not and will not let senseless acts of terror undermine our commitment and resolve to fight for democratic principles both at home and around the world.”
