The top Republican in the Arizona House of Representatives is calling on his fellow lawmakers to formally condemn Hamas and affirm Arizona’s support for Israel.
The Legislature’s first day is usually full of formalities and speeches, including Gov. Katie Hobbs’ State of the State address. But a resolution from House Speaker Ben Toma (R-Peoria) will likely be the first thing lawmakers vote on during the new legislative session on Monday.
Toma said he’ll hold a vote on a resolution that states Arizona and Israel “share spiritual, economic and social ties,” and that the state supports Israel’s efforts to combat Hamas.
Specifically, the resolution condemns Hamas’ October attack on Israel and expresses support for Israel’s “right to pursue without interference or condemnation the elimination of Hamas.” It also states that the Legislature encourages Americans to condemn Hamas and any other body that refuses to recognize Israel’s right to defend itself.
Toma told KTAR that he believes the resolution has bipartisan support, though he said he does not know “if every member supports it.”
Resolutions are non-binding expressions of legislative opinion. They only require a majority vote to pass and do not need to be signed by the governor.
