Washington, D.C. —Rep. David B. McKinley, P.E. (R-W. Va.) issued the following statement on the recently announced Palestinian “unity” government that will include Hamas:

“The inclusion of Hamas in the new Palestinian government is a threat to the security of Israel and a blow to prospects for long term peace. This action will only serve to raise tension and instability in the region. By joining with Hamas, President Abbas is making it clear the Palestinian Authority is not a willing partner for peace.

“There is no question Hamas is a terrorist organization with the ultimate goal of destroying the State of Israel. United States law prohibits financial assistance to terrorist organizations. Therefore the Obama Administration should immediately suspend U.S. aid to the Palestinian Authority until further review.”