Issues

Palestine

Extension of Remarks By Congressman Bobby L Rush

Posted on Wednesday May 31, 2006

Submitted to the Congressional Record- 5/24/06

Mr. Speaker, I rise here today to extend my remarks on HR 4681, the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act that was passed here on the House Floor on May 23, 2006. Mr. Speaker, the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act was a bill that I and I am sure many of my colleagues as well, struggled with and deliberate on a great deal. While America’s support for Israel is unwavering, Congress does not want to send the wrong message to the Palestinian people that we have given up on them or the path to peace in that region.

Mr. Speaker, the intent of HR 4681 was not to alienate the Palestinian people, but rather to demonstrate America’s resolve against terrorism in all its forms, including the leadership of Hamas and the Hamas-controlled Palestinian Authority. This bill was passed to send a strong message to Hamas’ leaders that they cannot continue to sponsor terrorism and call for the destruction of Israel and expect to receive American financial and diplomatic support. America will stand firm with Israel against any enemy who seeks to terrorize its people or disrupt the lives of its citizens.

With that being said, it is also important for the Palestinian people to know that America is not an enemy, but that we seek to help establish a two state system, with Israel and Palestine coexisting side by side in peace. America strongly believes in the peace process and we hope to facilitate that process so the entire region will be better for it. When Congress passed HR 4681 it was not a vote against the Palestinian people, but a vote against terrorists by those who have called for the destruction of Israel and who have sponsored terrorism in the past and continue to do so.

Congress understands that we must be resolute against terrorist leaders, but also show humanity and compassion towards the poor and innocent children and destitute people of the Palestinian territories. That is the only way we can achieve peace and stability in the region. Mr. Speaker, I will continue to support the peace process between Israel and the Palestinian people along with my colleagues here in Congress, and America will continue to provide humanitarian aid and assistance for those people who need it most. We will not let the election of Hamas hijack the road to peace that we have all sought for so long. Thank you Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.