Condemning the Acts of War Perpetrated Against Israel by Hezbollah Forces

CONDEMNING THE ACTS OF WAR PERPETRATED AGAINST ISRAEL BY HEZBOLLAH FORCES -- (Senate - July 13, 2006)

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Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, I rise today to talk briefly about the current events in Israel and the Middle East.

I strongly condemn the ongoing murderous attacks by Hezbollah on Israel and its soldiers. Several days ago, eight Israeli soldiers were killed and two were kidnapped following an unprovoked attack on northern Israel. Hezbollah must immediately and unconditionally release all Israeli soldiers. Hezbollah has refused United Nations demands to disarm and has been responsible for terrible acts of violence for many years. No country should provide support for Hezbollah, which is a U.S.-designated terrorist group. Hezbollah's actions are contrary to the interests of the Lebanese people and hurt the region.

The Hezbollah attack follows a June 25 attack by Hamas on a southern Israeli military post that resulted in the kidnapping of an Israeli solider and the killing of several others. Hamas must also immediately and unconditionally release the soldier it is holding and end attacks on Israel.

The United States will stand by our longtime ally and friend. The Israeli people have the right to live in peace and security. Israel has the right to protect its citizens. I strongly condemn the ongoing murderous attacks by Hezbollah and Hamas on Israel and its soldiers and believe that restraint is needed in the region to stop the escalation of violence and protect innocent lives.

I yield the floor

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