The Democratic National Committee (DNC) approved the first draft of the party’s official platform, which underwent a preliminary vote in a hearing on Wednesday and is set to be unveiled to public next month.
In the draft, which has been seen by Asharq Al-Awsat, the Democrats expressed their opposition to any unilateral actions by Israelis or Palestinians that could threaten the two-state solution. They also expressed opposition to Israel’s annexation plan.
“We support a negotiated two-state solution that ensures Israel’s future as a Jewish and democratic state with recognized borders and upholds the right of Palestinians to live in freedom and security in a viable state of their own. Democrats oppose any unilateral steps by either side — including annexation — that undermine prospects for two states,” it read.
The committee, composed of 15 members, also refused to use the word “occupation” to describe annexation in the draft, which had been pushed for by Josh Orton, a member of the committee and senior adviser for Vermont Senator Bernie.
“Bottom line: The fact that Palestinians live under occupation is not a matter of serious dispute,” said Josh Orton.
“It’s important to acknowledge this, because people living under occupation are afforded certain rights, and those rights must be upheld and protected.”
He added that “a growing and just movement within our party believes that US aid should not be used to facilitate annexation and violate Palestinian rights.”
However, despite progressives’ efforts to include the word “occupation” in the party’s platform, the language used in the draft was more in line with Joe Biden’s campaign.
The platform also expresses its support for Jerusalem remaining the capital of Israel.
“We believe that while Jerusalem is a matter for final status negotiations, it should remain the capital of Israel, an undivided city accessible to people of all faiths.”
It should be noted that the committee will continue to edit the draft until July 27, when the final draft will be voted on. The platform outlining the party’s plans will be officially released at the Democratic National Convention on the 7th of August.
