Opposition lawmakers welcome Pence to Israel

Opposition lawmakers welcome US Vice President Mike Pence to the Knesset, ahead of his afternoon speech.

“Today, we welcome Vice President Pence to Israel and to the Knesset,” says Yesh Atid leader Yair Lapid, in a rare English-language statement at the weekly faction meeting. “He should know that not only the government is grateful for his friendship and delighted to welcome him here, but also the opposition. Vice President Pence is one of Israel’s greatest friends and allies, a longtime opponent of BDS, and a man whose commitment to the security and well-being of Israel are worthy of our gratitude and our praise.”

Lapid says the decision by the Palestinian Authority to snub Pence during his two-day visit is both “curious and disappointing.”

“It is further proof that they once again choose victimhood over a positive approach. I’ll stop here because this isn’t a day for arguments; it’s a day for celebration. A great friend of Israel has come to our home and we welcome him warmly,” he adds.

Zionist Union leader Avi Gabbay also thanks Pence for his visit, describing him as a “true friend” of Israel. But in 24 hours, when Pence leaves the country, ” there will still be 4.5 million Palestinians here.”

“His visit will not change this fact and won’t change our obligation to resolve this issue and not to pass it on to our children,” says Gabbay. He laments that the coalition, in his view, will not seize the opportunity to advance a peace deal.

— Marissa Newman