Elizabeth Warren on Israel
TL;DR
Elizabeth Warren strongly advocates for a two-state solution while consistently supporting Israel's security and human rights for Palestinians.
Key Points
She believes a two-state solution, ending the Israeli occupation and establishing a sovereign Palestinian state, is the best path for US interests and Israeli security.
Following the October 7th attack, she stated Israel has the right to defend itself but that the violence unleashed on civilians in Gaza is not making anyone safer.
She voted against a 2019 bill that authorized state/local governments to demand contractors not support boycotts of Israel or its West Bank settlements, citing free speech concerns.
Summary
Elizabeth Warren has articulated a position that balances firm support for Israel’s security with a strong commitment to Palestinian rights and a two-state solution. She asserts that Israel has the right to defend itself from terrorist attacks, referencing the October 7th attack as the deadliest day for the Jewish people since the Holocaust, and emphasizes the need to bring hostages home. However, she has also been critical of Israeli government actions, specifically condemning the expansion of settlements and annexation proposals as dangers to the two-state solution. She advocates for conditioning US aid if annexation proceeds and has called for an end to the Israeli occupation to establish an independent Palestinian state living alongside Israel.
Her stance includes pressing for accountability in the use of US weapons and prioritizing humanitarian relief in Gaza, while also supporting diplomatic efforts for a lasting peace. During her presidential campaign, she pledged to resume aid to Palestinians, reopen channels of communication closed by the prior administration, and re-establish a US mission to Palestinians in Jerusalem, indicating that both parties should be able to have their capitals in Jerusalem in a final agreement. She has also faced criticism from some activist groups related to her historical support for defense contractors with ties to Israeli security contracts.
Key Quotes
That is now the policy of the Trump administration: say one thing in a campaign, write it down on paper, then go do whatever the hell you want. That is wrong.
Frequently Asked Questions
Elizabeth Warren's core position strongly supports Israel's security and right to self-defense while simultaneously advocating for an end to the occupation and the establishment of a viable two-state solution. She views this dual approach as necessary for long-term peace and stability in the region.
Her fundamental commitment to a two-state solution has remained consistent throughout her career. However, her language and criticism regarding specific Israeli government policies, such as settlement expansion and actions in Gaza, have been voiced with increasing urgency, particularly since 2020.
She acknowledged October 7th as the deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust, affirmed Israel's right to defend itself, and demanded the return of hostages. However, she also criticized the subsequent violence in Gaza and called for an urgent ceasefire and humanitarian relief.
Sources5
Senator Warren Statement on October 7th Anniversary
Views on Israel of U.S. Presidential Candidates 2020: Elizabeth Warren
Sen. Elizabeth Warren (D-MA) – Israel Policy Forum
Elizabeth Warren - The Mapping Project
* This is not an exhaustive list of sources.