Friday, August 17, 2012

COLLECTED STATE DEPARTMENT RELEASES: PUSSY RIOT, RAJAB SENTENCE, PALESTINIAN AID

FROM: U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT
Sentencing of Pussy Riot Punk Band Members in Russia

Press Statement
Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
August 17, 2012
The United States is concerned about both the verdict and the disproportionate sentences handed down by a Moscow court in the case against the members of the band Pussy Riot and the negative impact on freedom of expression in Russia.

We urge Russian authorities to review this case and ensure that the right to freedom of expression is upheld.
 

Sentencing of Nabeel Rajab

Press Statement
Victoria Nuland
Department Spokesperson, Office of the Spokesperson

Washington, DC
August 17, 2012
The Government of Bahrain has committed to respect freedom of expression and assembly and we look to it to fulfill these commitments. We are deeply concerned that a Bahraini court sentenced Nabeel Rajab to three years in prison on charges of leading "illegal gatherings." We expect that the verdict and sentence will be reconsidered in the appeals process without delay. We urge the government of Bahrain to consider all available options to resolve this case. We believe that all people have a fundamental right to participate in peaceful acts of protest. We have repeatedly urged the government of Bahrain to take steps to build confidence across Bahraini society, and to begin a meaningful dialogue with the political opposition and civil society. Excessive punishment for peaceful expression – in this case and others – will not contribute to those efforts and only serves to divide Bahraini society further.

 

U.S. Assistance to the Palestinians

Taken Question
Office of the Spokesperson
Washington, DC
Question: How much of the FY2012 support for Palestinians has been transferred and how much is still pending? Are there congressional holds? If so, what is the State Department’s view on these holds?
Answer: We are working with the Congress to ensure continued U.S. support for the Palestinians, including $200 million in direct budget support this fiscal year (2012). We note that the United States provided $200 million in direct budget support to the Palestinian Authority in fiscal year 2011.

Our view remains that our assistance to the Palestinian people is an essential part of the U.S. commitment to a negotiated two-state solution for Palestinians and Israelis, promoting a comprehensive peace in the Middle East. It is in the interest not only of the Palestinians, but of Israel and the U.S. as well, to ensure these efforts continue as they help to build a more democratic, stable and secure region.

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