Rick Perry on Israel
Summary
In July of 2007, Governor Perry visited Israel and stated that the nation has an inherent right to exist and to defend itself. He states that he supports a foreign policy that aggressively advocates for the protection and preservation of democratic states in that part of the world, including Israel. He asserts that America cannot be neutral in the debate between the goals and aspirations of Israel and the Palestinian organization Hamas.
That same month, Governor Perry stated that he wanted Texas to be Israel's number one trading partner and that although we desire economic profit in our business relationships, we must also partner with Israel in our defense of basic human dignity.
In January of 2009, Governor Perry responded to a series of mortar attacks in Israel by calling on Hamas to cease the attacks and stating that no other nation on earth would be expected to stand idly by while a neighbor fired missiles and mortars into its cities, but Israel is being held to an unreasonable, irresponsible standard of restraint. He called for the world to unite in its support of Israel’s right to defend its citizens and clear in its condemnation of Hamas.
Visiting the Holy Land
In July of 2007, Governor Perry wrote an editorial noting a recent trip to Israel. He discusses his view that Israel has an inherent right to exist and to defend itself. He states that American cannot be neutral towards Israel and that he has long supported an American foreign policy that recognizes the right of a Jewish state to exist in the Middle East, one that aggressively advocates for the protection and preservation of democratic states in that part of the world, including Israel.
Divestment from Iran
In September of 2007, Governor Perry issued a press statement noting that he was sking the Employees Retirement System (ERS) and Teachers Retirement System (TRS) to divest all investments from companies doing business with Iran.
Texas-Israel Chamber of Commerce
In September of 2007, Governor Perry issued a press statement noting a speech he made to the Texas-Israel Chamber of Commerce. He spoke about the threat Iran was to Israel.
Hamas Attacks Must Stop
In January of 2009, Governor Perry released a press statement noting his views that recent Hamas attacks on Israel must stop.
CBS Foreign Policy Debate
In November of 2011, Governor Perry participated in the CBS foreign policy debate. He was asked about foreign and if he would support returning funding for all countries to zero. He expressed support for the plan and stated that it would apply to Israel as well.