Recognizing Israel's Right to Defend Itself Against Attacks from Gaza
Floor Speech
RECOGNIZING ISRAEL'S RIGHT TO DEFEND ITSELF AGAINST ATTACKS FROM GAZA -- (House of Representatives - January 09, 2009)
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Madam Speaker, I will vote in support of H. Res. 34, the Gaza Conflict Resolution. Certainly, everyone recognizes Israel's legitimate right to defend itself, the need for a ceasefire, and the demand that Hamas stop its rocket attacks against Israel, recognize the right of Israel to exist, and join the rest of the Palestinian people in negotiations with Israel to reach agreement on a two-state solution to the Middle East conflict and establish peace for all the peoples of the region. Earlier this month, I issued a statement outlining these same key concerns.
However, I would like to clearly express my frustration and dissatisfaction with what has not been included in this resolution.
I strongly believe the resolution should have included and expressed support for the concerns raised by the International Committee of the Red Cross, ICRC and United Nations field staff on the ground inside Gaza about potential violations of international humanitarian law, IHL by both parties. I am particularly concerned about potential violations of IHL by Israel because I am such a strong supporter of Israel.
I am also disappointed that the resolution did not reference the resolution passed by the U.N. Security Council on January 8, calling for an immediate ceasefire. While the UNSC resolution is flawed by its failure to condemn Hamas rocket attacks, it is an important call for a cessation of hostilities, which H. Res. 34 also demands.
Finally, I am deeply saddened and disturbed by the increasing toll on Israeli and Gazan citizens as this most recent escalation in the conflict over Gaza continues. Military operations must stop; the rocket attacks must stop; and all regional and international actors must engage Hamas and Israel to agree to a durable and verifiable cessation of hostilities.
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