Another U.S. State Declares: “There’s No Such Thing as the West Bank”
In a bold move, Louisiana will officially use “Judea and Samaria” instead of “West Bank.” Governor Jeff Landry declares full support for Israeli sovereignty.
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In a significant symbolic move, the State of Louisiana has announced its intention to formally recognize the biblical name "Judea and Samaria" instead of the term "West Bank." This development makes Louisiana the second U.S. state to adopt such a position.
The decision follows an extended meeting between Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan and Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry, culminating in a large pro-Samaria conference. At the event, the two leaders stood together holding the draft legislation, receiving a standing ovation from the crowd.
The proposed bill, to be advanced in Louisiana’s next legislative session, is being spearheaded by State Senator Valarie Hodges, a longtime advocate for Israel. Once passed, it would mandate the use of “Judea and Samaria” in official state documents and discourse.
“Louisiana Fully Stands with Israel”
Governor Landry made his support for Israeli sovereignty in Judea and Samaria crystal clear:
“Mr. Council Chairman, the State of Louisiana stands fully with Israel on this issue—and on anything you may need. Sovereignty is a key component, and we will do everything we can to support you.”
“A Moral and Just Law”
Yossi Dagan thanked Governor Landry for the initiative, stating:
“You cannot imagine how meaningful your support is to the State of Israel and its security - especially for the Jewish communities in Judea and Samaria. Sovereignty is historical justice. This law is both moral and just.”
As a token of appreciation, Dagan presented the governor with a commemorative certificate and a bottle of wine from Samaria:
“This symbolizes our friendship, shared values, and joint mission,” Dagan said. “We bring you our love, appreciation, and blessings from Mount Gerizim, Joseph’s Tomb, and the Dotan Valley - biblical sites of the Land of the Bible, Judea and Samaria.”
The initiative was facilitated by Tony Perkins, President of the Family Research Council, with support from Israel’s Ministry for Diaspora Affairs and the Fight Against Antisemitism.
This legislation represents an important milestone in the growing international recognition of the Jewish people's historical and legitimate claim to their ancestral homeland.