Statement on Israel’s 70th birthday

April 19, 2018
(OTTAWA) — Elizabeth May extends warm wishes to all those celebrating Israel’s 70th birthday, referred to in Hebrew as Yom Ha’atzmaut.

“For Jewish-Israelis and in Jewish communities around the world, Yom Ha’atzmaut is a day to celebrate the creation of a homeland for millions of Jews from diverse backgrounds,” said Elizabeth May (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands). “Israel has achieved so much in its short history. I am proud to call myself a loyal friend of Israel.

“It is my hope that this anniversary will be a time for Israelis to reflect on the rights of Palestinians living under occupied rule. The security and well-being of both Israelis and Palestinians depends on a successful resolution to the conflict, based on the creation of a viable Palestinian state living side-by-side with Israel in peace and prosperity.”