(Washington, D.C., May 11, 2021)—B’nai B’rith President Charles O. Kaufman and CEO Daniel S. Mariaschin have issued the following statement:

In light of ongoing Hamas terror attacks against Israel and Fatah’s incitement of violence against Israelis, we call on the White House to abandon plans to open a consulate in East Jerusalem and to rescind any permission for the PLO to open an office in Washington, D.C.

The clear support for these attacks that has come from Palestinian Authority leader Mahmoud Abbas shows, without question, that the PA gives approbation to those using violence in Jerusalem.

Abbas has declared this uprising “the battle of all battles; that the long struggle against a satanic colonialist force” is at hand.

A more peaceful and certain result would be to come to the negotiating table to discuss a real, tangible outcome.

Central to Hamas’ doctrine is a call for Israel’s destruction. It is becoming increasingly clear that the PA refuses to choose a path toward resolving this conflict. In light of that, keeping these offices closed would send a strong message that promoting violence against Israel is a dead end.

B’nai B’rith International has advocated for global Jewry and championed the cause of human rights since 1843. B’nai B’rith is recognized as a vital voice in promoting Jewish unity and continuity, a staunch defender of the State of Israel, a tireless advocate on behalf of senior citizens and a leader in disaster relief. With a presence around the world, we are the Global Voice of the Jewish Community. Visit www.bnaibrith.org.