[Congressional Record Volume 143, Number 115 (Thursday, September 4, 1997)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E1654-E1655]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                           BOMBING IN ISRAEL

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                         HON. ROBERT A. WEYGAND

                            of rhode island

                    in the house of representatives

                      Thursday, September 4, 1997

  Mr. WEYGAND. Mr. Speaker, I wanted to use my 1 minute today for two 
purposes: The first is to extend condolences to all Israelis and their 
families who were involved in the bombing at the Ben-Yehuda marketplace 
this morning.
  The second is to urge PLO Chairman Yasar Arafat to take immediate and 
decisive action

[[Page E1655]]

against Hamas and prove to the Israeli people and to the United States 
that he is truly a proponent of peace and an opponent of violence.
  Just 2 weeks ago, I embarked on a trip to Israel with a group of 
congressional colleagues. We mourned the loss of those killed in the 
bombing at the marketplace on July 30, visited the West Bank and met 
with both Prime Minister Netanyahu and Chairman Arafat.
  During our meeting, I asked Mr. Arafat if he supported the actions of 
groups like the Hamas. He insisted he did not. Two days ago, Mr. Arafat 
participated in what he dubbed ``unite'' meetings and was seen kissing 
the heads of Hamas operatives. Today that same group has allegedly 
claimed credit, yes credit, for taking the lives of innocent people.
  So far this morning, we have heard that this bombing has killed 6 
innocent Israelis and injured more than 165 others.
  On my last visit, I found Israel more contentious than it was on my 
previous trip--2 weeks before the signing of the Oslo peace accord.
  As Members of Congress, we all play a role in policy toward the PLO. 
In my opinion, Mr. Arafat, you must move yourself miles from the 
actions of groups like the Hamas and take strong action against them, 
whether it is with your armed services or in another way. Otherwise, I 
can't understand why the United States should supply your organization 
with funds and support.

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