Washington, January 23 (RHC)-- U.S. President Donald Trump’s choice to become the next U.S. ambassador to the United Nations refused to say Tuesday whether the Palestinian people have the right to self-determination. 

New York Republican Congressmember Elise Stefanik made the comments during her confirmation hearing at the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, where she confirmed to Maryland Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen that she believes Israel has a “Biblical” right of dominion over the occupied West Bank.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen: “I’m rarely surprised by answers in my office, but I did ask you whether you subscribe to the views of Finance Minister Smotrich, who I” —

Rep. Elise Stefanik: “Of who? I’m sorry. Finance” —

Sen. Chris Van Hollen: “Smotrich. This is the Israeli Finance Minister Smotrich and the former National Security Minister Ben-Gvir, who believe that Israel has a biblical right to the entire West Bank.  And in that conversation, you told me that, yes, you share that view.  Is that your view today?

Rep. Elise Stefanik: “Yes.”

[ SOURCE: DEMOCRACY NOW ]