Deploring Misuse of International Court of Justice by United Nations General Assembly for Political Purpose

DEPLORING MISUSE OF INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE BY UNITED NATIONS GENERAL ASSEMBLY FOR POLITICAL PURPOSE -- (Extensions of Remarks - July 20, 2004)

Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I voted against H. Res. 713 because I believe the intent of this resolution had nothing to do with Israel's best interests, nor with promoting peace in the Middle East. The text was written by the Republican majority with the explicit intent of trying to be as politically divisive as possible.

I strongly believe that Israel has the right to defend itself against terrorism. However, while the resolution expresses support for Israel's right to construct a security barrier, it is clear to me that this measure was a cynical attempt to divide people for political gain here in the United States.

There are legitimate questions as to the propriety and wisdom of the action taken by the International Court of Justice, ICJ, in this matter, and in fact I personally disagree with their decision. However, this resolution goes too far and condemns the ICJ for politicizing an issue, when the very reason the Republican majority brought this issue to the floor is for political purposes.

Over the past four years, the House of Representatives has passed, with my support, at least nine non-binding Resolutions in regards to Israel. I entreat the leadership to now expend the same effort and energy to craft meaningful legislation that actually takes substantive action to further the Middle East peace process rather than paying so much lip service, as we too often do on issues of importance.

Over the years, the United States has been a vital player in facilitating peace negotiations in the Middle East. I have long said that the U.S. should be the first to support Israel's right to protect its citizens. I have also taken the position that Congress should not formally endorse the security fence, nor should we oppose it. To do so, I believe, meddles in internal Israeli affairs and compromises the U.S.'s ability to be a player in future peace negotiations.

The future security of the Middle East depends on negotiating a just, permanent, and peaceful settlement between Israelis and Palestinians that both guarantees Israel's security and establishes a Palestinian state. I cannot support resolutions, such as H. Res. 713, that are detrimental to this process.

I believe that it is the responsibility of those who are pro-Israel, like myself, to support measures that advance the security of Israel. This legislation does not do that. My efforts and advocacy over the years on behalf of Israel speaks for itself, and my support for Israel will continue throughout my tenure as a Member. I urge the Republican majority to get serious about promoting peace in the Middle East and the security of Israel rather than wasting Congress' time with non-binding resolutions intended to make political points in an election year.