WASHINGTON, DC – Congresswoman Kay Granger (TX-12), Chairman of the House State and Foreign Operations Appropriations subcommittee, released the following statement regarding the announcement that President Mahmoud Abbas swore in a new Palestinian government on Monday.

"Israelis and Palestinians worked for months to come to a peace agreement. The announcement of a new Palestinian government is a major set-back and a roadblock to peace. Israel cannot be expected to negotiate with a terrorist organization. Hamas, not just members of the new government, must acknowledge Israel’s right to exist, renounce violence, and adhere to previous international agreements. Funding for the Palestinians is off-the-table until it is clear that the unity government is committed to peace and security.”