NEW YORK—In response to a recent statement by the Swedish Prime Minister and a non-binding vote by the British Parliament in support of Palestinian statehood, Hadassah National President Marcie Natan released the following statement:

Hadassah, the Women’s Zionist Organization of America, Inc., is deeply disappointed and concerned by recent actions in support of Palestinian statehood. Peace in the Middle East can only be achieved through a negotiated two-state solution, not through unilateral actions. Recognition of a Palestinian state prior to Palestinian recognition of the Jewish state and Israel’s right to exist, fundamentally undermines Israeli security and the peace process.

As the Israeli government continues to emphasize, recognition of a Palestinian state at this stage sends the message that Palestinian leaders can avoid difficult and necessary choices which must be made in order to achieve real peace.

On behalf of Hadassah’s 330,000 Members, Associates, and supporters, I call on leaders and nations around the world to support the Israeli-Palestinian peace process by backing direct bi-lateral negotiations without preconditions.

Following positive steps to revive the peace process this past weekend, Hadassah continues to urge all parties to maintain commitment to the process in order to ensure a future of stability in the region and a peaceful fulfillment of a two-state solution.

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Founded in 1912, Hadassah, the Women's Zionist Organization of America, is the largest women's Zionist Jewish membership organization in the United States. 330,000 members strong, Hadassah is entering its second century, growing our commitment to innovative and life-changing medical care and research, women's empowerment, education, advocacy, philanthropy and building Jewish identity – in Israel, America and around the world. For more information, visit my.hadassah.org.