Tell HB City Council To Say 'No' To Normalizing Genocide

On Tuesday, Sept. 17, Huntington Beach Mayor Gracey Van Der Mark and City Councilmember Tony Strickland will introduce a motion to create a Sister City Agreement between Huntington Beach and the city of Ramat Gan in Israel. The motion aims to foster “cultural, economic, and collaborative programs” between the two cities, further solidifying the relationship between the U.S. and Israel.

By introducing this motion, Huntington Beach is sending a clear message of solidarity with Israel, despite Israel's ongoing genocide in Gaza and egregious expansion of violence in the West Bank. Rather than celebrate Israel, we must hold it accountable for its war crimes and ongoing violations of international law.  

Despite the U.N. Secretary General calling on Israel to immediately cease its military operation in the West Bank, the Israeli state continues its war crimes and collective punishment in both Gaza and the West Bank daily.

Over 40,000 Palestinians have been killed, and millions have been displaced as Israel commits horrific crimes against humanity. Essential infrastructure, such as hospitals and schools, have been destroyed, and Israel continues to target civilians in Gaza, especially those seeking safety in camps and designated safe zones. 

Even after the killings of U.S. citizens like peace activist Rachel Corrie and, more recently, Aysenur Eygi, American politicians continue to show support for Israel. 

Rather than celebrating Israel right now, we must hold Israel accountable for its war crimes and ongoing violations of international law. America’s unconditional support for Israel MUST stop.

Offer A Public Comment: Attend the City Council Meeting in person on Tuesday, Sept. 17, at 6 p.m. (2000 Main St., Huntington Beach)

Talking Points

• Condemnation of Genocide: Israel’s actions in Gaza have resulted in over 40,000 Palestinian deaths and the destruction of essential infrastructure. However, this number does not take into account the thousands of presumed dead under the rubble. A study published in the medical journal The Lancet estimates that nearly 200,000 or more deaths could be attributed to Israel’s genocide in Gaza. The City of Huntington Beach should not align itself with a country committing such atrocities. 
• Violation of International Laws: Israel continues to violate numerous international laws through its military actions and occupation. Establishing a Sister City Agreement with Ramat Gan sends the wrong message that the City of Huntington Beach supports the violation of international laws and war crimes. 
• Moral Responsibility: Supporting Israel in any form, especially during an ongoing genocide, is morally indefensible. American cities should not foster relationships with nations engaged in war crimes and genocide. 
• Implications of Solidarity: A Sister City Agreement would signal solidarity with Israel’s actions. Any form of support for Israel equates to endorsing genocide and human rights violations.