Democratic congressman Steve Rothman just released the following statement regarding the comments on anti-Semitism made by Howard Gutman, the U.S. ambassador to Belgium:
"Anti-Semitism is inexcusable under any circumstances. Those who use the existence of the Jewish State of Israel or the ongoing deadlock in Israeli-Palestinians peace negotiations as an excuse to hate Jews are nothing more than anti-Semitic bigots. I strongly disagree with Ambassador Gutman’s analysis on the different reasons for anti-Semitism and I am pleased that he has expressed regret for his remarks."
The American Jewish Committee earlier today said it was " appalled" by Gutman's remarks. Senator Joe Lieberman and Democratic congressman Gary Ackerman likewise blasted Gutman's comments.