Honoring Israeli Independence Day

Floor Speech

* Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, I rise in recognition of the 62nd anniversary of one of our country's most steadfast and supportive allies: Israel.

* Since Israel's declaration of independence in 1948, Jews from all over the world have moved there to put down roots, flourish, and participate in a Jewish state and society. Israel has grown from a country that provided a refuge for Jews who survived unprecedented horrors and anti-Semitic persecution to a nation with a strong and enduring tradition of democracy and liberal governance.

* Israel was born out of war and conflict, and has weathered constant threats from beyond its borders since its creation. The history of Israel is one of a nation small in size but large in its dedication to the enduring principles of democratic governance, liberal democracy, and national unity. It is a testament to the character and inner strength of the Israeli people that their country continues to develop and flourish even as it is surrounded by so many who unjustly wish to see it dissolved and destroyed.

* The nation of Israel is a friend of the poor and dispossessed around the world. It has sent humanitarian aid and emergency medical supplies to war zones in Rwanda; disaster areas in Turkey, the Indian Ocean, and along the Gulf Coast; and to fire-scorched areas in Greece. Most recently, Israel supplied much-needed support and relief to the people of Haiti, including deploying the Israel Defense Forces on aid missions and contributing millions of dollars to help the Haitian people rebuild their country.

* It is clear that Israel's national mission is a higher calling than mere survival or self-perpetuation. It is an example to the world of the power of a determined national spirit, a citizenry dedicated to justice, and a set of founding principles that cannot be corrupted.

* From the moment the United States recognized the State of Israel 11 minutes after its creation in 1948, Israel has proven to be a loyal partner with which the United States enjoys a mutually beneficial alliance. The advances made by our two countries in educational, scientific, and technological fields help to make the world a better place, and augment our intelligence and security partnerships in a crucial region of the world.

* I join with many of my colleagues in the U.S. House of Representatives in highlighting my admiration for what the nation of Israel has accomplished in the last sixty-two years. It is my hope that the people of Israel use this anniversary as an opportunity to set a path forward that will help bring peace and prosperity to themselves and to their region for the next several years.

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