For Release:
Contact: J. Tucker Martin or David Clementson
Email: jtmartin@oag.state.va.us or dclementson@oag.state.va.us
Phone: 804-786-2071
Letter by Virginia Attorney General Bob McDonnell for the Virginia Israel Solidarity Gathering
Today around the world, those who love freedom recall the words of the Psalmist: “Redeem Israel, O God, out of all their troubles!” The world is witnessing the latest attempt of terrorists to bring ruin to Israel.
The modern state of Israel arose out of the ashes of war and tragedy. Not even the horror of the Holocaust prevented the Jewish people from settling again in their ancient homeland. They have built a democracy that shines as a beacon of freedom in a region thirsting for peace. Israel is a model of constitutional government, and a brave and steadfast ally of the United States.
The world must remember that this current attack – as with those launched in 1967, 1973 and 1982 – seeks but one ultimate objective: the end of the Israeli nation. The Hezbollah offensive in the north, and the Hamas directed insurgency in the south, are similar to past assaults – and the result must as well be no different. Lasting peace and security for Israel is the only acceptable outcome. Never again should the Israeli nation have its existence threatened, its innocent people attacked.
The question for the community of nations is age old: Does the nation of Israel have a right to exist peacefully in the Middle East? I firmly believe that the answer given by the world to this fundamental question must be a resounding yes. Yes, we do support a free, democratic and secure Israel.
As Attorney General of Virginia, I urge the Commonwealth’s federal representatives to make it clear that the people of Virginia stand united in our unwavering and unyielding support of the nation of Israel and its people. America was the first nation to officially recognize Israel in 1948. Today, we renew our commitment to defend and assist our ally in this time of conflict and uncertainty. I join other leaders in condemning the Hezbollah attacks, and I strongly support Israel’s efforts to fight terrorism at its borders.
With Support for the Nation and People of Israel,
Robert F. (Bob) McDonnell
Attorney General of Virginia
