Miami Beach considerings sending delegation to Israel, "unwavering support"
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The city of Miami Beach could send a delegation to Israel as soon as next month "to demonstrate the city's unwavering support and friendship."
- A resolution, proposed by Commissioner Kristen Rosen Gonzalez, asks the administration to "identify funding" for a mission trip that would include the entire city commission and seven community leaders.
Why it matters: The proposal comes as the one-year anniversary of the war in Gaza approaches and after the city has faced accusations of trying to deter pro-Palestinian protests.
Between the lines: If approved Wednesday, officials will begin identifying funding and assisting in the planning of the trip.
- The seven additional attendees are unknown, but Rosen Gonzalez said she'll propose that each commissioner and the mayor selects a delegate.
Zoom in: The commission is also expected to discuss two other Israel-related items Wednesday, including an effort to "prohibit against contracting with parties that boycott Israel" — a move some say penalizes political opinions.
- The city should hire contractors solely based on their qualifications, "not whether or not they hold political views the commission doesn't like," constitutional lawyer Alan Levine told Axios.
Zoom out: Other South Florida municipalities have also affirmed their support of Israel.
- In May, the city of Doral came under fire for calling for "an immediate and permanent end to all hostilities" in Israel and Gaza but walked it back a week later.
What they're saying: "Doing this at any time would be problematic, given that Israel is an occupying power, but doing this at this moment is so beyond shameful," Donna Nevel, who is part of Jewish Voice for Peace with Levine, told Axios.
- "First off, they're supporting genocide. Second, why are they spending city funds [when] there's so many needs in our city," she said.
The other side: In an email response to Axios, Rosen Gonzalez defended her proposal, saying "there is no better time" for such a resolution.
- "I think it's imperative for the vast majority of my constituents to defend Israel's right to exist in peace and prosperity," she said.
What's next: Organizations such as Jewish Voice for Peace are urging residents to attend Wednesday's meeting to speak against the effort.
- "We need to make our voices loud and clear and protest," Nevel said. "This is not OK and we're not going to sit quietly by."