Lawmakers in the Michigan House of Representatives introduced a resolution on Tuesday urging the United States government to support Israel’s right to statehood and to take actions aimed at preventing Hamas and other groups from threatening Israel’s existence. The measure, House Resolution 372, was introduced by Rep. Gina Johnson and sponsored by Reps. Joseph Fox and Tim Kelly.

The resolution emphasizes the historical connection of the Jewish people to the land of Israel, noting that despite repeated persecution and expulsion over centuries, the establishment of a Jewish homeland aimed to provide a safe refuge where Jews could freely practice their faith and avoid future atrocities such as the Holocaust. It asserts that since Israel’s founding, various countries and terrorist organizations have rejected its legitimacy and sought its destruction.

The text references the October 7 massacre carried out by Hamas as evidence that Israel continues to face existential threats. It states that Israel’s right to exist should not be denied, identifying such denial as a form of antisemitism. The resolution also calls attention to the harmful impact of antisemitic rhetoric, especially when expressed by public officials, arguing that such language undermines democratic principles and can lead to further human rights abuses.

As part of the resolution, lawmakers requested that Michigan’s governor undertake a comprehensive review of state department policies and administrative guidelines to ensure they are free of antisemitism. After its introduction, the measure was referred to the House Committee on Government Operations for additional scrutiny and consideration.

The resolution represents a formal appeal from Michigan legislators to both state and federal authorities, reinforcing support for Israel amid ongoing regional tensions and condemning actions and rhetoric that could contribute to antisemitism or threaten the Jewish state’s security.