Florida leaders show bipartisan support for resolutions that support Israel, condemn Hamas

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Florida lawmakers shared bipartisan support for resolutions that express “unwavering support” for Israel while condemning the terrorist organization of Hamas.

The resolution was introduced by Sen. Lori Berman, D-Boynton Beach, in the Florida Senate. A similar resolution was introduced in the House by Rep. Katherine Waldron, D-Wellington, and Rep. Peggy Gossett-Seidman, R-Highland Beach.

“This resolution stands as a statement of solidarity with Florida’s closest foreign ally, Israel,” Waldron said. “We are outraged at this terrorist organization’s cruelty attacking and killing innocent people.”

The resolutions follow terrorist attacks against Israel from Hamas, a terrorist organization backed by Shi’ite Iran.

Sen. Clay Yarborough, R-Jacksonville, added his name as a co-sponsor to the resolution and told Florida’s Voice he strongly condemns “the heinous, genocidal attacks by Hamas on Israel.”

“Such brutal acts of violence, which target innocent civilians and destabilize the region, are indefensible, counterproductive to any peaceful resolution, and further exacerbate an already volatile situation in the Middle East,” Yarborough said.

The resolutions said the Florida Senate and the Florida House of Representatives stand in solidarity with Israel, condemn the “unprovoked attack by Hamas” and “[support] Israel’s right to defend itself and protect its citizens from indiscriminate violence and terrorism.”

“Israel, like any sovereign nation, has the right to defend its citizens, territory, and infrastructure against aggression and massacres like what the country is experiencing,” Yarborough said.

“The indiscriminate rocket attacks launched by Hamas are causing death, immense suffering, and growing fear among Israeli civilians, including women, children, and the elderly,” he said. “Such actions are inexcusable and unacceptable.”

Sen. Danny Burgess, R-Zephyrhills, also added his name as a co-sponsor to the resolution and told Florida’s Voice that “there is no place in this world for Hamas and their terror and barbarism.”

“Florida stands in solidarity with Israel and their mission to eradicate evil from the face of this Earth,” Burgess said. “Hamas are terrorists and butchers; they have attacked and murdered innocent people, including Americans.”

“Florida is united in condemning their brutality and supporting our friends in Israel during this critical time,” he said.

Sen. Travis Huston, R-Palm Coast, also co-sponsored the resolution and told Florida’s voice he believes both parties “should unite and stand together.” The senator said “now isn’t the time for political games.”

The Senate and House recognized Israel’s right to “exist as a sovereign and independent nation” in the resolutions.

The resolutions said Florida stands “firmly in solidarity with the State of Israel in its efforts to safeguard its citizens, protect its borders, and ensure the safety and security of its people.”

They also reaffirm the “unwavering commitment” to the partnership between Florida and Israel.

“Florida and Israel have a long-standing relationship based on mutual democratic values and the unprovoked, heinous attack on Israel should be offensive to all Floridians,” Berman said. “We stand in support of our democratic ally and affirm their right to defend themselves.”

A copy of the resolutions will be transmitted to Gov. Ron DeSantis, each member of the Florida Congressional Delegation, and the ambassador of Israel to the U.S. as a “testament to the enduring partnership” and “unwavering support” between Florida and Israel.

Berman and Waldron said they are “hopeful” the resolutions will be passed “swiftly” in both the Florida Senate and the Florida House of Representatives.

Florida’s 2024 Legislative Session begins on Jan. 9, 2024.