UN Ambassador Nominee for President Trump, Elise Stefanik: Support for Palestinian Rights and Israel's 'Biblical Rights' in the West Bank
Elise Stefanik, U.S. President Donald Trump's nominee for UN Ambassador, stated that Israel has a "biblical right" to the West Bank. She made this comment during her confirmation hearing on Tuesday, where she pledged to continue Trump’s "America First" policy.
Stefanik said, "If confirmed, I am prepared to uphold America's leadership on the world stage through our national security and strength, in accordance with President Trump’s directives." She also mentioned that she would reassess U.S. funding for the United Nations and its agencies and address China's influence.
When asked about the West Bank, Stefanik clearly stated that she believes in the views of Israel’s Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich and former National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir, who claim a "biblical right" over the entire West Bank. In this regard, she said, "Yes, I agree."
At the same time, she did not support self-determination for Palestinians and stated, "A lot could be done for the Palestinian people, but development has not occurred due to their leaders who are terrorists." She further added, "Of course, they should have human rights."
Stefanik’s comments stand in contrast to President Joe Biden’s administration's policies towards Israel. The Biden administration had labeled Israeli settlement construction as illegal under international law, although they continued to support Israel at the time.
