[Congressional Record Volume 144, Number 49 (Tuesday, April 28, 1998)]
[House]
[Pages H2362-H2371]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
SENSE OF CONGRESS ON 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF FOUNDING OF MODERN STATE OF
ISRAEL
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and pass the
joint resolution (H.J. Res. 102) expressing the sense of the Congress
on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the modern
State of Israel and reaffirming the bonds of friendship and cooperation
between the United States and Israel.
The Clerk read as follows:
H.J. Res. 102
Whereas on November 29, 1947, the United Nations General
Assembly voted to partition the British Mandate of Palestine,
and through that vote, to create the State of Israel;
Whereas on May 14, 1948, the people of Israel proclaimed
the establishment of the sovereign and independent State of
Israel and the United States Government established full
diplomatic relations with Israel;
Whereas the desire of the Jewish people to establish an
independent modern State of Israel is the outgrowth of the
existence of the historic Kingdom of Israel established three
thousand years ago in the city of Jerusalem and in the land
of Israel;
Whereas one century ago at the First Zionist Congress on
August 29 to 31, 1897, in Basel, Switzerland, participants
under the leadership of Theodore Herzl affirmed the desire to
reestablish a Jewish homeland in the historic land of Israel;
Whereas the establishment of the modern State of Israel as
a homeland for the Jews followed the slaughter of more than
six million European Jews during the Holocaust;
Whereas since its establishment fifty years ago, the modern
State of Israel has rebuilt a nation, forged a new and
dynamic society, and created a unique and vital economic,
political, cultural, and intellectual life despite the heavy
costs of six wars, terrorism, international ostracism, and
economic boycotts;
Whereas the people of Israel have established a vibrant and
functioning pluralistic democratic political system including
freedom of speech, a free press, free and fair and open
elections, the rule of law, and other democratic principles
and practices;
Whereas, at great social and financial costs, Israel has
absorbed hundreds of thousands of Jews from countries
throughout the
[[Page H2363]]
world, many of them refugees from Arab countries, and fully
integrated them into Israeli society;
Whereas for half a century the United States and Israel
have maintained a special relationship based on mutually
shared democratic values, common strategic interests, and
moral bonds of friendship and mutual respect; and
Whereas the American people have shared an affinity with
the people of Israel and regard Israel as a strong and
trusted ally and an important strategic partner: Now,
therefore, be it
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the
United States of America in Congress assembled, That the
United States--
(1) recognizes the historic significance of the fiftieth
anniversary of the reestablishment of the sovereign and
independent modern State of Israel;
(2) commends the people of Israel for their remarkable
achievements in building a new state and a pluralistic
democratic society in the Middle East in the face of
terrorism, hostility and belligerence by many of her
neighbors;
(3) reaffirms the bonds of friendship and cooperation which
have existed between the United States and Israel for the
past half-century and which have been significant for both
countries; and
(4) extends the warmest congratulations and best wishes to
the State of Israel and her people for a peaceful and
prosperous and successful future.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to the rule, the gentleman from New
York (Mr. Gilman) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) each
will control 20 minutes.
The Chair recognizes the gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman).
General Leave
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members may
have 5 legislative days within which to revise and extend their remarks
on this measure.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the
gentleman from New York?
There was no objection.
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
(Mr. GILMAN asked and was given permission to revise and extend his
remarks.)
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, H. Res. 102 expresses the sense of the
Congress on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the
modern State of Israel. It reaffirms the bonds of friendship and
cooperation between our Nation and the State of Israel.
I want to commend our colleague on the Committee on International
Relations, the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) for his
leadership in sponsoring this resolution and for his unstinting support
of the State of Israel over the years.
H. Res. 102 has been cosponsored by more than a majority of our House
Members. Such support is yet another indication of the special esteem
in which we hold the State of Israel.
Mr. Speaker, over 50 years ago the United Nations General Assembly
voted to partition the British Mandate of Palestine, and through that
vote to create the State of Israel. On May 14, 1948, Israel became a
sovereign state and the United States, under President Harry Truman,
recognized that state.
Announcement by the Speaker Pro Tempore
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair would remind the guests in the
gallery that they are guests of the House and please keep their
conversations to a minimum.
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, within 11 minutes of that recognition,
President Harry Truman recognized the State of Israel. According to the
Jewish calendar, that anniversary will be celebrated this week.
The modern state of Israel was reborn after thousands of years thanks
to the leadership and years of dedicated commitment by Theodore Herzl
and hundreds and thousands of men and women who, sharing his vision,
worked tirelessly to make that dream a reality.
The reestablished state of Israel became a homeland for Jews who
survived Hitler's slaughter, as well as those who fled Arab lands as
well as others in which they had been persecuted. Despite all of those
difficulties, Israel has absorbed hundreds of thousands of Jews over
the past five decades, and has become a thriving multicultural
democracy that holds a special place as a strong ally of our own
Nation.
The special relationship that we in our Nation share with Israel is
based on democratic values, common strategic interests and moral bonds
of friendship and mutual respect. Israel is a strong and trusted friend
and is an important strategic partner.
Mr. Speaker, H.J. Res. 102 therefore recognizes the historic
significance of the 50th anniversary of the reestablishment of the
sovereign and independent modern state of Israel. The resolution
commends the people of Israel for their remarkable achievements despite
the terrorism, the hostility and belligerence by many of its neighbors.
This legislation reaffirms the bonds of friendship and cooperation
which have existed between our Nation and Israel for the past half
century and which have been significant for both nations. The
resolution also extends our warmest congratulations and best wishes to
the state of Israel and to her people for a peaceful, prosperous and
successful future.
Accordingly, Mr. Speaker, I urge our colleagues' full support for
H.J. Res. 102.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, let me first acknowledge in the gallery the
distinguished Ambassador of the State of Israel and his party for
having joined us for this very significant occasion.
Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the distinguished gentleman from New
York (Mr. Gilman), chairman of the Committee on International
Relations, my good friend, for his kind words. Let me just say no one
in this body has been a more steadfast supporter of the democratic
state of Israel than Chairman Gilman, who through the years, with
action after action, has demonstrated his profound commitment to this
democratic friend and ally of the United States and to the ultimate
goal of that democratic friend and ally, the securing of a permanent
and stable peace in the region.
Mr. Speaker, I would like to first briefly discuss the essence of my
resolution. We here in the Congress are congratulating the modern state
of Israel, which is the outgrowth of the existence of the historic
Kingdom of Israel established thousands of years ago in the City of
Jerusalem and in the land of Israel.
The establishment of the modern State of Israel 50 years ago followed
the slaughter of more than 6 million Jews in the concentration camps
and gas Chambers of Europe.
Since being created as a tiny nation on a tiny piece of land with a
population of some 600,000, the modern state of Israel has rebuilt a
nation, forged a new and dynamic society, created a unique and vital
economic political, cultural and intellectual life, despite mind-
boggling costs of six wars started against it, continuing terrorism,
international ostracism and severe economic boycotts.
{time} 1545
The people of Israel have established a vibrant, functioning,
pluralistic democratic system which cherishes the right of free speech,
free press, free and fair and open elections, the rule of law, and all
the democratic practices of a free society.
During the 50 years of its existence, this young State absorbed well
over a million refugees from throughout the world, ranging from
Ethiopia to the former Soviet Union and integrated these people fully
into the very fabric of Israeli society.
For a half a century, the United States and Israel have maintained a
special and unique relationship based on mutually shared democratic
values, common strategic interests, and moral bonds of friendship and
mutual respect.
The American people have shared an affinity with the people of Israel
and regard Israel as a strong and trusted ally and an important
strategic partner in the Middle East.
The resolution we are about to vote on recognizes the historic
significance of the 50th anniversary of the reestablishment of the
sovereign and independent modern State of Israel. The resolution
commends the people of Israel for their remarkable achievements in
building a new State and a pluralistic democratic society in the Middle
East in the face of terrorism,
[[Page H2364]]
hostility, and belligerence by many of her neighbors.
It reaffirms the bonds of friendship and cooperation which have
existed between the United States and Israel for a half a century and
which have been significant and beneficial to both of our countries.
Of course, it finally extends our warmest congratulations and best
wishes for the State of Israel and for her people for a future of
peace, prosperity, and success.
Mr. Speaker, yesterday on the White House lawn, in a magnificent
ceremony, President Clinton was awarded an honorary doctorate from
Israel's leading university, the Hebrew University in Jerusalem.
During the course of his acceptance speech, among others, the
President had these ideas to share with us: I accept this honor today,
he said, on behalf of my predecessors, beginning with Harry Truman,
nine American Presidents all devoted to Israel's security and freedom,
all committed to peace in the Middle East. I accept it on behalf of the
American people who have formed, not just an alliance, but a profound
friendship with the people of Israel over these last 50 years.
Today we celebrate those extraordinary 50 years. In 1948, Israel
arose from the seeds of the Diaspora and the ashes of the Holocaust.
The children of Abraham and Sarah, survivors of 2,000 years of exile
and persecution, were home at last and free at last.
For its founders, the Israeli State was, however, about even more
than securing a haven for the Jewish people after centuries of
suffering and wandering. Isaiah prophesied that Israel would become a
light unto the nations, and David Ben-Gurion, the first President of
this new nation, and his allies set out to make that prophesy come true
by establishing a society of light, embracing what Ben-Gurion called
the higher virtues of truth and justice and compassion.
Ben-Gurion, Mr. Speaker, believed Israel could lead the world to a
better future by marrying the ethical leadership of the ancients with
the discoveries of modern science. I quote him: ``It is only by the
integration of the two that the blessings of both can flourish.'' Of
course, he also envisioned a third great achievement for Israel that,
with the strength and wisdom and skill, Israel would build a lasting
peace with its Arab neighbors.
Relations between our two nations were born of another leader's
courage and vision. Harry Truman brushed aside the urgings of his
advisors, as he so often did, when they said, go slow, wait and see
before offering Israel its recognition.
For Harry Truman, supporting the State of Israel was a moral
imperative rooted in his understanding of the sufferings and the dreams
of Jews from Biblical times. As we learned yesterday on the White House
lawn, our recognition of Israel occurred just 11 minutes after Israel
proclaimed its independence. We, in becoming the first nation to
recognize Israel, had one of our proudest moments.
Not only that, Mr. Speaker, but 50 years later, old Harry Truman
looks pretty smart. Look what Israel has done. Under a brilliant blue
sky, the Israelis have built prosperous farms, planted forests, turned
streets of sand into shining boulevards, raised families and welcomed
the arrival of brothers and sisters from Europe and North Africa, from
Russia and Ethiopia, from all over the world. They have dazzled the
world with their achievements in science and scholarship and literature
and art. They have built a thriving democracy.
Despite the passage of 50 years, Israelis seem to practice their
freedom as if they had only just gained it yesterday. They never seem
to cease challenging themselves about their history, their relationship
with their neighbors, the hard choices for the future.
If anyone ever wonders whether there is ever a place in the world
where you can have freedom and honest vigorous 24-hour-a-day, 7-day-a-
week, 365-day-a-year argument, go to Israel.
It is truly one of the most pulsating, vibrant places on the face of
this planet. Alive with thousands of sounds, prayers in dozens of
languages in the Old City; young people gathered on the avenues of Tel
Aviv, computer keyboards tapping; new ventures launched on the
Internet; school children now conversing in Hebrew, once the language
only of the sacred text, now the voice of an Israeli renaissance.
The economy that has been propelled by all this energy and activity
into being one of the most advanced and diversified in the world last
year exported $32 billion worth of goods, 1,000 times their level of 50
years ago.
High-tech companies and high-tech people. You go to Israel, it looks
as if you cannot be a citizen of Israel unless you have a cell phone
glued to your hand.
Israelis have gone a very long way of fulfilling the first two pieces
of Ben-Gurion's mission. Surely they have built an ethical, democratic
society, a society which is based on modern science and technology. It
has endured against unspeakable odds by prevailing again and again in
battle. The valor of its soldiers and military and political leaders
are legendary.
But the battle for the third piece of Ben-Gurion's vision, a just and
secure and lasting peace, is still being waged and still in blood and
tears. Camp David brought peace between Israel and Egypt, but it cost
Anwar Sadat his life.
On the White House lawn, on a brilliant day in September of 1993,
Yitzhak Rabin committed himself not only to an agreement with the
Palestinians, but to a comprehensive peace in the Middle East. And how
bravely he pursued it, but it cost him his life.
Jews and Arabs who have wanted nothing more than to live quiet,
normal lives are still denied that simple pleasure. Still, Mr. Speaker,
as the new century dawns, the world is filled with the promise and hope
that we can overcome ancient hatreds to build a modern peace for our
children.
From Guatemala to Mozambique and to Bosnia, and now even to Ireland,
longtime antagonists have left the battle ground to find common ground.
They are weary of war. They long for peace for their children and for
their grandchildren. They move beyond hatred to hope.
Mr. Speaker, this is a time for reconciliation around our globe. It
must be a time to deepen freedom and to raise up life in the Middle
East. The 21st century can and must be a century of democracy,
prosperity, justice, and most of all of peace; but it can only be a
century of peace if we learn not only to respect, but to honor our
differences. It is in that spirit that I ask my colleagues to join me
in approving this resolution, commending the State of Israel on its
50th anniversary.
Mr. Speaker, I include the following for the record:
Remarks by The President at Reception for The 50th Anniversary of
Israel
The President. Thank you very much. Mr. President,
Director, all the officials of Hebrew University. Mr. Vice
President, members of the Cabinet, the administration,
members of the Congress. I'd like to especially thank Dr.
Dunn, Dr. Nyang, Dr. Schorsch, and Richard Dreyfuss and Linda
Lavin for their wonderful contributions to this day. To
Ambassador and Mrs. Ben-Elissar, thank you for being here. To
all of our former ambassadors to the United States and other
distinguished guests from Israel, and my fellow Americans.
I'd also like to ask that we give a special word of
appreciation to the people who provided all that wonderful
music which got us in the right frame of mind. Thank you very
much. (Applause.) If you could hang around here for a month
or two, I think we might get some things done--you'd keep us
all in a very positive frame of mind.
I am very honored to receive this degree from Hebrew
University of Jerusalem--honored because its founders include
Chaim Weizmann, Martin Buber, Sigmund Freud and Albert
Einstein; honored because it is now one of the world's
leading centers of learning and research.
I must say, I never expected to be doing this here. Many
American universities have satellite campuses where working
people like me can obtain degrees at locations near their
homes and offices. (Laughter.) This is more than I ever could
have anticipated. (Laughter.)
President Magidor, thank you for bringing this ceremony
here so that those of us who cannot go to Israel in a couple
of days may share in the celebration of this magnificent 50th
birthday.
I accept this honor today on behalf of my predecessors,
beginning with Harry Truman--nine American Presidents all
devoted to Israel's security and freedom, all committed to
peace in the Middle East. I accept it on behalf of the
American people who have formed not just an alliance, but a
profound friendship with the people of Israel over these last
50 years.
Today we celebrate that extraordinary 50 years. In 1948,
Israel arose from the seeds of the Diaspora and the ashes of
the Holocaust. The children of Abraham and Sara, survivors
[[Page H2365]]
of 2,000 years of exile and persecution, were home at last
and free at last. For its founders, the Israeli state was,
however, about even more than securing a haven for the Jewish
people after centuries of suffering and wandering. Isaiah
prophesied that Israel would become ``a light unto the
nations,'' and David Ben-Gurion and his allies set out to
make that prophecy come true by establishing a society of
light, embracing what Ben-Gurion called the higher virtues of
truth, justice, and compassion.
Ben-Gurion believed Israel could lead the world to a better
future by marrying the ethical teachings of the ancients with
the discoveries of modern science. ``It is only by the
integration of the two,'' he wrote, ``that the blessings of
both can flourish.'' Of course, he also envisioned a third
great achievement for Israel that, with strength and wisdom
and skill, Israel would build a lasting peace with its Arab
neighbors.
As we have heard today, relations between our two nations
were born of another leader's courage and vision. Harry
Truman brushed aside the urgings of his advisors, as he often
did, when they said go slow, wait and see, before offering
Israel recognition. For him, supporting a Jewish homeland was
a moral imperative rooted in his understanding of the
sufferings and dreams of the Jews from biblical times. And as
we learned from Richard's wonderful reading, it occurred just
11 minutes after Israel proclaimed independence. We, in
becoming the first country to recognize Israel, had one of
our proudest moments. (Applause.)
Not only that, 50 years later, old Harry Truman looks
pretty smart. (Laughter.)
Look what Israel has done. Under a brilliant blue sky, the
Israelis have built prosperous farms and kibitzes, planted
forests, turned streets of sand into shining boulevards,
raised families and welcomed the arrival of brothers and
sisters from Europe and North Africa, from Russia and
Ethiopia, and America. Israelis have dazzled the world with
achievements in science and scholarship, in literature and
the art. They have built a thriving democracy.
And despite the passage of 50 years, Israelis seem to love
and practice their freedom as if they had only just gained
it. They never seem to cease challenging themselves about
their history, their relationship with their neighbors,
the hard choices for the future. If anyone ever wonders
whether there is ever a place in the world where you can
have freedom and honest, vigorous, 24-hour-a-day, seven-
day-a-week, 365-day-a-year argument, go to Israel.
(Laughter and Applause.)
It is truly one of the most pulsating, vibrant places on
Earth--alive with thousands of sounds, prayers in dozens of
languages in the Old City; young people gathered on the
avenues of Tel Aviv, computer keyboards tapping; new ventures
launched on the Internet; school children now conversing in
Hebrew, once the language only of sacred text now the voice
of an Israeli renaissance. And the economy has been propelled
by all this energy and activity into being one of the most
advanced and diversified in the world--per capita income now
matching nations in Europe; exports last year were $32
billion dollars, 1,000 times their level in 1948.
Hi-tech companies, hi-tech people. You go to Israel, it
looks as if you can't be a citizen of Israel unless you have
a cell phone glued to your hand. (Laughter.) Yes, Israelis
have gone a very long way toward fulfilling the first two
pieces of Ben-Gurion's vision. Surely they have built an
ethical, democratic society, and a modern science and
technology-based economy. It has endured against great odds
by prevailing again and again in battle. The valor of citizen
soldiers and military and political leaders like Golda Meir,
Moshe Dayan, Yonnie Netanyahu.
But the battle for the third piece of Ben-Gurion's vision--
a just, secure and lasting peace--is still being waged and
still in blood and tears. Camp David brought piece between
Israel and Egypt, but it cost Anwar Sadat his life. Here on
this very spot, on a brilliant day in September of 1993,
Yitzhak Rabin committed himself not only to an agreement with
Mr. Arafat, but to a comprehensive peace in the Middle East.
How bravely he pursued it. But it cost him his life.
Jews and Arabs who have wanted nothing more than to live
quiet, normal lives are still denied that simple pleasure.
Still as the new century dawns, the world is filled with the
promise and hope that we can overcome ancient hatreds to
build a modern peace for our children.
From Guatemala to Mozambique to Bosnia, and now even to the
land of my ancestors in Ireland, longtime antagonists have
left the battleground to find common ground. They are weary
of war. They long for peace for their children. They move
beyond hatred to hope.
This is a time for reconciliation around the world. It must
be a time to deepen freedom and raise up life in the Middle
East. The 21st century can and must be a century of
democracy, prosperity and justice, and of course, of peace.
But it can be only if we learn not only to respect, but to
honor our differences. The Middle East can build on the
momentous achievements of its Nobel Prize winners--Begin and
Sadat, Arafat, Peres and Rabin--so that all its children may
grow up without fear.
In a land holy to three great religions, sacred sites for
Islam, Judaism and Christianity exist side by side. If there
is so much history there, the children of all that history
should be able to live together.
Again and again, extremists have sought to derail peace
with bullets and bombs. Again and again, they demonstrate the
real divisions today are not between Jews and Arabs, but
between those stuck in the past and those who long for a
better future; between those paralyzed by hatred and those
energized by hope; those who stand with clenched fists and
those who reach out with open hands. We cannot let the
extremists prevail. Israel can fulfill its full promise by
drawing on the courage and vision of its founders to achieve
peace with security. Never has the opportunity been more real
and it must not be lost.
You know, I was sitting here on the stage today listening
to everything that was said and thinking of all the great
gifts that Israel has given the United States. In 1963, 35
years ago this year, when Israel was still a young nation and
President Kennedy was killed, your then-United Nations
Ambassador, Mr. Eban, gave an enormous gift to the American
people in all of our pain by putting in one short, terse
sentence how we all felt when he said, tragedy is the
difference between what is and what might have been. As we
look ahead to tomorrow, let us define triumph by turning his
formula on its head. Triumph is when there is no difference
between what might have been and what (Applause.)
Let us in the United States say that we will stand by
Israel, always foursquare for its security, always together
in friendship, but we want this debate to continue until
there is no difference between what might have been and what
is. (Applause.)
We look at Hebrew University and see all three pieces of
David Ben-Gurion's dream coming to life. We see biologists
developing techniques to locate a single cancer cell among
millions of healthy ones. We see the moral commitment to
keeping people's health among the scientists there. We see
Hebrew University researchers undertaking efforts in
cooperation with Palestinian researchers in East Jerusalem.
One of the participants in the project said, it's science and
peace together. We know that much more is possible. We must
understand that much more is essential.
Fifty years from now the 21st century will near its
midpoint and Israel will have a 100th birthday celebration.
Sure as the world, our grandchildren will be hanging around
here on this lawn. What do you think they'll be able to say?
And what will they be celebrating? It is my dream that on
that 100th anniversary, people from every country in the
Middle East will gather in the Holy Land, and all the land
will be holy to all of them.
As a Christian, I do not know how God, if He were to come
to Earth, would divide the land over which there is dispute
now. I suspect neither does anyone else in this audience. But
I know that if we all pray for the wisdom to do God's will,
chances are we will find a way to close the gap in the next
couple of years between what might be and what is. I think
that is what we owe the founders of Israel--to finish Ben-
Gurion's dream.
Thank you and God bless you all. (Applause.)
____
Remarks by Vice President Al Gore--50th Anniversary Celebration for
Israel
Thank you all so very much for those profound and moving
words.
It is a privilege to be here with you today. A half century
ago, on a morning bursting with the promise of spring, a
small group of rabbis and statesmen, workers and kibbutzim,
dreamers, soldiers and survivors gathered at the Tel Aviv
Museum, under a portrait of Theodore Herzl--and listened as
the wise and brave David Ben-Gurion read the Scroll of
Independence: ``By virtue of our national and intrinsic
right,'' he said, ``we hereby declare the establishment of a
Jewish state in Palestine, which shall be known as the State
of Israel.''
Thus--quietly and triumphantly--a sovereign Israel at last
had been born in the promised land. And only eleven minutes
later, a daring Harry S Truman became the very first among
world leaders to recognize the newly-proclaimed Jewish state.
Today we gather as one nation to give thanks for the
fiftieth anniversary of this remarkable moment of hope and
history.
But in a larger sense, we gather today not just to
celebrate Israel's independence--but to give thanks for the
miracle of her survival; for the history of Israel and the
Jewish people is the story of the redemption and freedom of
all oppressed peoples everywhere.
For more than four millenia, Judaism has struggled over
four continents and six civilizations. After enslavement by
the Pharaohs, wandering in Canaan, destruction in Judah,
captivity in Babylon; after the strife of the Maccabeans,
oppression by the Romans; as children of the ghetto in the
Middle ages, as victims of the camps, Judaism has survived.
And--my friends--Israel survives.
It survives because of the ingenuity and foresight of men
and women with names like David Ben-Gurion and Chaim Weizmann
and Golda Meir; Shimon Peres, Yitzhak and Leah Rabin, and
Yonni and Bibi Netanyahu.
It survives and is nurtured every day by the morality of
the Torah, the social justice of the Prophets, and the
eternal Jewish values of family and faith.
It survives not as an artifact or a monument. No; Israel is
vital, and is constantly renewed by its diversity, and its
creativity.
Israel has proven to be far more than the land of ``milk
and honey'', it is a land of poetry and culture and learning
and life, of
[[Page H2366]]
technology and science and commerce, of productivity and
prosperity unrivaled virtually anywhere in the world.
We gather here today not only to celebrate these
achievements, but also to proclaim for all to hear that the
dream of an Israel free, secure, and at peace, in a world
where the echoes of anti-Semitism are heard no more, will be
a reality for all time.
I want you to know that Israel never has had a better
friend in the White House than President Bill Clinton.
That is what Israel's leaders will tell you, and that is
what the historians and the history books will tell in the
future as well.
Our friendship with Israel is not merely with one or
another of its political parties. Our ties are deeper: they
are forged by an iron-clad commitment to Israel's security
and well-being, to combating terrorism, to stopping the
spread of weapons of mass destruction; and to achieving a
just, lasting, and comprehensive peace between Israelis and
Palestinians, Egyptians, Jordanians, Syrians, and Lebanese
and all who live in this holy land.
In two days, Tipper and I will travel to Israel to
represent the American people at the celebration of Israel's
50th anniversary of independence. This is a great honor. I
know we will carry the yearnings of millions of Americans for
peace in the promised land; for a new season of joy, and a
new jubilee of hope.
There is a wonderful song of Israel which is called al kol
eileh--For all these things. Let me share with you some of
its lyrics:
For all these things, please watch over for me my good God;
Please don't uproot that which is planted.
Don't forget the hope
Bring me back, and I shall return
to the good land. El ha'a-retz hatovah.
As we prepare to begin our own special journey to the good
land, may we never forget the hope that God who makes peace
in the heavens will grant peace here on Earth, among us, on
Israel and upon all the inhabitants of the world.
Thank you very much.
Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time.
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to yield whatever time he may
consume to the gentleman from California (Mr. Dreier).
Mr. DREIER. Mr. Speaker, I thank my very dear friend, the gentleman
from New York (Mr. Gilman), the chairman of the Committee on
International Relations for yielding me this time.
Mr. Speaker, I would simply like to rise to echo the remarks of my
very dear colleague the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) in
extending a very important 50th anniversary congratulations.
When one thinks about this alliance which has begun since the outset
of the existence of the State of Israel, it is a very key one. When one
thinks about the sacrifices that have been made on part of the Israeli
people for interests that are, quite frankly, in many cases, those of
the United States of America, I think it is very fitting and
appropriate that we, as a Nation, mark this very, very important
milestone.
I would simply like to express my appreciation to my colleagues for
moving ahead with this resolution and extend the hardiest
congratulations possible.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to yield 3 minutes to my
distinguished colleague, the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. Vento).
Mr. VENTO. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman from California for
yielding and commend the gentleman from California for his profound
statement this afternoon in recognition of the 50th anniversary of the
establishment of the modern State of Israel.
While I failed to and have not heard the statement from others this
afternoon, I know that the distinguished chairman has a statement, but
I would certainly associate myself with the profound remarks that the
gentleman from California and I know my colleague, the gentleman from
New York (Mr. Gilman), the chairman of the committee, will make.
I simply want to rise and support this resolution. As we have said
that the founding of the modern State, of course, is predicated on the
fact that, for 2,000 years, without a physical presence and a
nationalism which has come to characterize nation states today, the
faith of the people of Israel persisted to such an extent that it has
had a positive contribution in so many nations around the world.
{time} 1600
I doubt that one could find a religious group that has upheld their
values, and I would say those values have woven their way into what we
characterize as Judeo-Christian tradition.
And so the celebration today is really one of recognizing the
importance of the individual, the very old but I might say contemporary
values that have served our Nation and served the people, mankind, that
are so well embraced in the Jewish faith. And it is indeed a
celebration to recognize that in this world today that this threat of
human history, this continuity has been embraced in terms of a nation
state.
Israel, really, as my colleague has said, is a jewel of economic and
social success in North Africa; one that I think on occasions has had
to rise to the defense of and deal with in other ways to persist in
advocating those values but, nevertheless, one that has served mankind
very well.
So I am very proud to recognize, as an old faith with a modern face,
as my friend said, with a blue sky and the white, great hope that is
engendered by this, and especially the positive prospects for the new
century. It has not been an easy birth, it has not been an easy life
for this nationalism in that part of the world, but I think that with
the policies and working together in Congress and with the strong ally
of the United States and maintaining those goals, we can ensure that
this Nation and this faith and these people and these values are
something that we share in common and we can guarantee and assure it
into the future with our solidarity.
I commend my colleagues for offering the resolution and join in
strong support of it and urge all to support it.
I rise today to honor the fiftieth anniversary of the establishment
of the modern State of Israel. Founded in the aftermath of the
Holocaust, in which over one-third of the world's Jewish population
lost their lives, Israel was established as a homeland for Jews from
around the world. A permanent refuge free from oppression and
persecution which had persisted for over 2000 years. In 1948, the
creation of the free independent state finally rendered a new hope for
people of the Jewish faith. Despite the land, the elements and the many
adversaries who have done their utmost to extirpate it, Israel has
flourished and developed into a dynamic democracy. Today, Israel is a
social and economic jewel that persists in offering hope.
No history or culture has been so well documented or remembered as
that of the Jewish people. Israeli culture, religious and national
identity were formed in the Holy land of Israel. Its vision and faith
has been maintained unbroken through the centuries, especially after
the majority of Jews were forced into exile. With the establishment of
the State of Israel in 1948, Jewish independence, lost two thousand
years earlier, was renewed. The events fifty years ago have breathed
new life into this age old faith. The physical presence in national
terms has been born anew.
Israel has been America's most loyal and devoted ally today. This is
evident in American values which exemplify our ideals socially,
economically and militarily that safe-guard these guarantees to all
peoples. As our Cold War partner, Israel stood firmly in perpetual
support for America's global commitment to freedom and democracy. As an
example, during the Persian Gulf War, Israel joined the American-led
coalition in its action against Iraq. Israel was very tolerant and
withstood Iraqi Scud missile attacks as a result. Today, Israel
continues to extend its hand in friendship to the United States and the
American people.
This anniversary illustrates fifty years of freedom and democracy for
the Israeli people. In honor of the special relationship the United
States and Israel have maintained based on mutually shared democratic
values, common strategic interests, moral bonds of friendship and
mutual respect, I extend the warmest congratulations and best wishes to
the State of Israel and her people for a peaceful and prosperous and
successful future.
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from
Florida (Mr. Foley).
Mr. FOLEY. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the gentleman from New York
(Mr. Gilman) and the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) for
bringing this resolution to the floor today. I am deeply pleased to be
an original cosponsor of it.
As policymakers and politicians, we often talk about how Israel is
our most important ally in the Middle East, a cherished friend and a
democratic society that we must continue to support for the sake of
stability and peace. And that is indeed true. But, as a person, I also
know that the State of Israel, which is so physically tiny, appears so
very large because of its history and its heart and the heart of its
people.
Israel has been both a battlefield and a sanctuary, and this year we
celebrate
[[Page H2367]]
its 50th anniversary as a state. I know that it became that state
because of the incredible courage and determination of a people who had
faced more evil than a thousand generations could conceive and have
survived to reflect both dignity and strength.
I join my colleagues today in this strong celebration and
congratulations, recognizing the historic significance of the 50th
anniversary of the reestablishment of the sovereign and independent
modern State of Israel.
We commend the people of Israel for their remarkable achievement in
building a new state and pluralistic democratic society in the Middle
East in the face of terrorism, hostility and belligerence by many of
her neighbors; and we strongly today reaffirm the bonds of friendship
and cooperation which have existed between the United States and
Israel. I think of all of the things that America has suffered and has
witnessed and has been a part of in our history, the friendship with
Israel remains our strongest and most formidable.
It is more important than ever for this Congress not only to support
this resolution on its 50th anniversary but through the commitment of
the gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman) and the gentleman from
California (Mr. Lantos) that we go about securing this celebration each
and every day we are here in this Congress; that we let everyone know,
friend and foe alike, that we will always stand side-by-side with
Israel; that we will not back down from a challenge and that we will
indeed protect and defend them at all possible costs. They would do the
same for us and have shown that determination for our abilities in the
past.
Again, I just want to strongly echo my support and my sentiments and
my pride in our chairman of the committee on H.J. Resolution 102, the
50th Anniversary of the State of Israel.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to my distinguished friend
and colleague, the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Bentsen).
Mr. BENTSEN. I thank my colleague from California for yielding me
this time; and, Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of this
resolution commemorating the 50th anniversary of the founding of the
modern State of Israel and join my colleagues in congratulating the
people of Israel for their impressive achievements in these 50 years.
This is also an appropriate opportunity to reaffirm the unique bond
between the United States and Israel, a bond forged of our common
commitment to freedom, justice and peace, and strengthened by the many
links between our peoples.
So much has happened since May 14, 1948, when the State of Israel was
reestablished following a vote by the United Nations General Assembly
to petition the British mandate of Palestine. On that day, the State of
Israel was formally proclaimed, and the United States extended
diplomatic recognition to the new state. This day also marked an
historic return to the Jewish people, who had established their
homeland more than 3,000 years before in the historic kingdom of Israel
in the City of Jerusalem.
In 50 years, Israel has developed a vibrant and dynamic society and
established a strong economic cultural identity, despite the heavy
tolls imposed by six wars, countless terrorist attacks and the
hostility of its neighbors. Because of the perseverance, ingenuity, and
faith of its people, Israel has overcome the most daunting of
challenges and become one of the world's great nations.
Mr. Speaker, few nations could prosper and grow while under siege, on
a state of alert and under attack, as Israel has had to do over the
last 50 years. For 50 years, the United States Congress has extended
bonds of friendship and cooperation to Israel. It is more important
than ever that we continue to support Israel economically and
militarily today as it makes the difficult decisions needed to secure a
lasting peace.
The future will surely bring many new challenges, including the
continued threat of terrorism and the added danger imposed by weapons
of mass destruction. So it is critical the United States and Israel
maintain our unshakeable alliance to further our many mutual interests.
May the next 50 years bring continued prosperity, ever stronger
friendship between our two nations, and a lasting peace for Israel and
all the nations of the Middle East.
I join my colleagues in congratulating the State of Israel and its
people on the occasion of its 50th anniversary.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that an additional
30 minutes be made available, to be equally divided between the
majority and the minority, for the debate of H.J. Res. 102, since large
numbers of our colleagues wish to speak on this subject.
The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Barrett of Nebraska). Is there objection
to the request of the gentleman from California?
There was no objection.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The 30 additional minutes is assigned 15
minutes to each side.
The gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) is recognized.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from
Connecticut (Ms. Rosa DeLauro), my good friend and colleague and a
strong friend of Israel.
Ms. DeLAURO. Mr. Speaker, let me congratulate my colleagues, the
gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) and the gentleman from New York
(Mr. Gilman); and I thank the gentleman from California for yielding me
this time.
I rise in strong support of the joint resolution congratulating
Israel on the 50th anniversary of its founding. Today, we mark one of
the monumental achievements of the 20th century, the birth of Israel.
In 1948, as the Jewish community and the world was trying to come to
terms with the awful brutality of the holocaust, a miraculous thing
occurred: The very people who had been victims of the most vicious
genocide the world has ever known emerged strengthened and hopeful. And
the Jewish people forged that enduring strength and hope into a mission
to build a new homeland, Israel.
The war had devastated the Jewish community of Europe, but in Israel
there was a new determination to build a new community, a new nation
and a secure future. The founders of Israel understood that only by
uniting in a common land, with a common language, a common culture
could the Jewish people and their heritage survive.
Israel was dedicated not only to physical survival but the survival
of the Jewish religious traditions, ethnic customs and history.
Israel's 50th anniversary is a reminder of the courage and strength of
the human spirit and what it can accomplish. Against all odds and
enemies, the people of Israel have united to build a strong nation. It
has not been an easy journey, but it has been a triumphant one.
Americans have had the honor over the past five decades to help the
brave men and women of Israel in their fight to make their dream a
reality, and today we unite with them in the effort to bring peace to
the region.
Congratulations to the people of Israel. May you continue to serve as
examples of courage, vigilance and dedication to the world.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from New
Jersey (Mr. Rothman).
Mr. ROTHMAN. Mr. Speaker, I want to first congratulate and thank my
friend, the gentleman from California (Mr. Tom Lantos), and the
gentleman from New York (Mr. Ben Gilman), two leaders in this Congress
who we look to on regular occasions for their inspiration as well as
their wisdom.
We are here to honor a nation of hard-working people, a country that
is a thriving democracy of freedom and human rights, a land that has
contributed to the world's economy and a sense of moral well-being, yet
a state that, on its 50th birthday, still has to fight its neighbors
for respect and, yes, for its right to exist.
Israel was founded after World War II, not by war, not by force, but
by the United Nations. The Jewish people's ties to the region goes back
more than 3,000 years. Every major country in the world supported
Israel's creation, just like they supported the creation of other
countries, Iraq, Lebanon, Jordan, Syria and Saudi Arabia, all of which
nations were created after World War I. The only difference between
Israel and these other countries, none of which existed before the 20th
century, is this:
[[Page H2368]]
Israel is the only western-style democracy in the Middle East, and it
is the only nonIslamic state.
The vast majority of these other states are still ruled by
bloodthirsty dictators, like Saddam Hussein of Iraq and Hafez Al-Assad
of Syria and the supreme leader Khamenei of Iran, and they are also
ruled by monarchies, like the tightly controlled monarchy of Saudi
Arabia. Yet Israel has thrived despite being surrounded by countries
still determined to drive them into the sea.
But she is not a war-torn nation, like the media tries to depict.
Israel is a beautiful, safe place, a vacation destination for
Americans, Europeans, Asians and Africans alike. She peacefully keeps
the Christian, Muslim and Jewish holy sites safe and secure for all
visitors from around the globe.
But Israel's 50th anniversary means more than the celebration of its
people, its democratic roots, its determination and its ability to
survive in a hostile environment. It means Israel should be respected
as one nation in the family of nations, especially by the organization
that created it, the United Nations.
Israel is America's strongest, most trusted and most reliable ally in
the Middle East. At the United Nations, Israel votes with the United
States 97 percent of the time, more than any other country in the
world. It is time for the United Nations to treat Israel as an equal
and not to vote against Israel when it takes measures to protect itself
and her citizens from her hostile neighbors.
Israel has earned the world's respect the hard way, making the desert
bloom with agriculture, high technology, art, culture and, above all
else, democracy. America wishes Israel a very happy 50th birthday, and
we want Israel to know that America stands with Israel, our greatest,
most trusted ally in the Middle East, now and forever.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from
American Samoa (Mr. Faleomavaega), my good friend who has been a
steadfast friend and supporter of the independence and security of the
State of Israel.
(Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA asked and was given permission to revise and extend
his remarks.)
Mr. FALEOMAVAEGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of
House Joint Resolution 102, the legislation which expresses the sense
of the Congress on the 50th anniversary of Israel's founding and
reaffirmation of the bonds of friendship and cooperation between the
United States and the modern State of Israel.
{time} 1615
Mr. Speaker, I am honored to be a cosponsor of this legislation, and
I thank our distinguished colleague the gentleman from California (Mr.
Lantos) for introducing this worthy measure. I also commend the
gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman), chairman of the House Committee
on International Relations, and the gentleman from Indiana (Mr.
Hamilton), the ranking member, for his support and for bringing this
legislation to the floor.
Mr. Speaker, on May 14, 1948, the modern State of Israel was founded
when Israel declared independence and was extended diplomatic
recognition by the United States. Today, our legislation honors the
50th anniversary of the reestablishment of the sovereign and
independent modern State of Israel and commends the leaders and people
of Israel for their remarkable achievements in building a thriving
democracy in the Middle East while being threatened constantly with
terrorism and war.
Mr. Speaker, the legislation further reaffirms the strong ties of
friendship and cooperation that have traditionally bound the people of
Israel with the insurance over the past century and extends from
Congress our warmest congratulations and best wishes to the State of
Israel and her people for peace and prosperity in the future.
Mr. Speaker, the existence of the modern State of Israel is the
culmination of a 3,000-year journey from the kingdom of Israel
established in old Jerusalem. Today, Israel is America's closest ally
in the Middle East, and the people of our two nations share a special
relationship based upon democratic values, common strategic interests,
and bonds of cooperation and mutual respect.
Mr. Speaker, it was my privilege recently to travel with the
gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman) and other Members of this body to
visit Israel and to especially pay homage to the great site of the late
Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin; and I recalled how this great modern-day
warrior, Mr. Rabin, who seriously and who earnestly sought a solution
to the crisis between the Israelis and the Palestinians, a man who
truly was a peacemaker, a man who wanted so much to have a lasting
peace with his blood cousins, the Palestinians, a man who recognized
that Arabs and Israelis are, in fact, first cousins under Father
Abraham.
And I sincerely hope that the current leadership, Prime Minister
Netanyahu of Israel and President Arafat of Palestine, will eventually
find the solution for peace to the never-ending problems between
Israelis and Palestinians in the Middle East.
Mr. Speaker, the late Prime Minister Rabin's greatness, in my humble
opinion, did not originate in the field of battle, but in his sincere
desires to establish peace between Israel and among its Arab neighbors.
Mr. Speaker, Americans with Jewish descent should have every reason to
be proud and to witness the existence on the 50th anniversary of the
modern State of Israel.
Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this resolution.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
Mr. Speaker, in conclusion, I would like to make a few observations
concerning this anniversary. I suspect the most important thing we need
to congratulate Israel on is that it survived. It survived in an
atmosphere and in a climate of unrelenting hostility. We need to
congratulate this small land for having remained democratic. We must
commend it for having successfully concluded peace agreements with
Egypt in 1979 and with Jordan in 1994. We must commend it for having
withstood terrorist assaults that continue to this very day.
In calendar 1997, 463 terrorist attacks were launched against Israel,
and an additional 100 were foiled. Iraq, during the Persian Gulf War,
lobbed ballistic missiles on the largest city in Israel. I was there.
Just earlier this year, Mr. Speaker, Israeli citizens, men, women and
children, were queueing up for gas masks when the climate in the
Persian Gulf indicated that they might again be subjected to Iraqi
attacks. They were buying antidotes for anthrax.
I think it is important to recognize that if this small land of great
history and great future is to celebrate its 100th birthday 50 years
from now, it and it alone will need to determine its basic perimeters
of its own security requirements. We can play a critical role, and must
play a critical role, in mediating, lubricating, facilitating. But just
as any other nation on the face of this planet, it is only the people
of Israel who, in the final analysis, can determine what are the
minimum requirements for their own security. It is in that spirit that
I ask my colleagues to approve this resolution.
Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance of my time.
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield myself such time as I may consume.
I want to thank the gentleman from California (Mr. Lantos) once again
for introducing the measure, for his kind words, for his strong,
eloquent support of this measure. I want to thank all of the Members
who came to the floor and took the time to express their thoughts with
regard to this measure. I thank all of those who participated in
today's debate.
Mr. RODRIGUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to express my support for
the resolution honoring Israel on the occasion of the fiftieth
anniversary of its independence. From ancient prayers to modern dreams,
the State of Israel has blossomed into a strong, thriving democracy and
a steady ally of the United States. We have witnessed two solutions to
the so-called Jewish Problem this century. One was evil and named the
Final Solution. Seeking to destroy the Jewish people, the Nazis
murdered 6 million Jews and millions of other innocents. The other
solution, which we join together to honor today, was one of hope and
promise--the return of the Jewish people to their ancestral home in the
land of Israel. That dream remains alive.
Israel has overcome the most daunting obstacles in its quest to
create a haven from persecution and the world's only Jewish state.
After 2,000 years of Jewish wandering and exile, the modern state of
Israel was born on
[[Page H2369]]
May 14, 1998, only to face the onslaught of its neighbors and constant
threat of destruction. Against all odds, Israel defended itself and
began to plant the seeds for its future. Following the war of
independence, Israel has time and again fought for its very existence.
Even today, the threat of war and the promise of terrorism weigh
heavily on Israel.
While many of the threats and anti-Israel rhetoric of 50 years ago
unfortunately remains the same today, much has changed for the better.
Egypt and Jordan have signed peace agreements with Israel, and the
Palestinian Arabs and Israel have begun a formal, if not shaky, process
toward peace. In the name of peace, Israel has ceded valuable territory
to those who vowed its destruction.
Israel has created a thriving economy, a free press, regular free and
open elections, the rule of law, and other firmly established
democratic institutions. The once-barren hillsides now are green with
trees and the fields again are plowed for the growth of food. Israel
has successfully fulfilled the dreams of thousands of immigrants who
fled tyranny and poverty and stands as a model for the absorption of
the outcast and homeless. High literacy and educational achievement
have produced an extraordinarily capable and creative workforce which
boasts achievements in agriculture, medical research, emerging
technologies and many other fields. Israel stands as a significant
trading partner of my home State of Texas.
I salute the people of Israel on this anniversary. May your future be
one of peace and security, prosperity, and continued friendship with
the people of the United States.
Mr. BONILLA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of legislation
commemorating Israel's fiftieth anniversary. The rebirth of Israel in
this century is a modern day miracle. Jews from every continent have
built a new nation, ancient in history, with a vibrant democracy and a
modern economy.
Israel represents the rebirth of a nation, a people, and the Hebrew
language. The building of a new nation with immigrants from societies
as diverse as Russia, Poland, Morocco, Argentina, India, and Ethiopia
is a challenge we as Americans recognize and celebrate. The
achievements in this regard are truly impressive. Israel has made the
desert bloom, has an exemplary education system and a growing economy.
It is a world leader in technology and has had an impact far larger
than other nations of its size.
Israel's accomplishments are particularly impressive as it has been
living under siege for its entire history. Independence was secured in
a bloody struggle and freedom has been defended at great cost. The
Jewish state has faced great struggles maintaining its independence as
the sole democracy in a hostile corner of the world.
America and Israel have been natural friends. Most Americans admire
Israel's commitment to democratic government while living under siege.
I think all Americans would like to join me in wishing the Israeli
people a future of peace and prosperity on this occasion. I am hopeful
that the people of Israel will achieve even more once a real peace, not
one imposed by outside powers, is reached with their neighbors.
Mr. GEPHARDT. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pleasure that I rise
today to join my colleagues in celebrating the occasion of the fiftieth
anniversary of the founding of the modern state of Israel.
Created in the aftermath of the Holocaust, the state of Israel has
served as a beacon of justice, freedom, and hope to Jewish people
around the world. Israel's deep commitment to a pluralistic democracy
and a vibrant economic, cultural, and intellectual life has served as a
model for many nations. And despite great adversity, Israel has been
steadfast in its commitment to achieving peace and security in the
region. These values have garnered the admiration and respect of
millions around the world.
It is these values that have also fostered the American people's
great affinity and mutual respect for the people of Israel, and which
have formed the core of the special bond between our two countries.
Today the U.S.-Israel relationship remains among the strongest of any
bilateral relationship in the world. The strength of this relationship
is also a tribute to those U.S. citizens, many of Jewish heritage, who
have worked tirelessly over the years to keep our Nation's leaders
focused on the importance of this relationship.
The United States and Israel have numerous common and deep interests,
and together will continue to lead the international fight against the
proliferation of weapons of mass destruction, terrorism, and threats to
religious freedom. Above all, we are united in our paramount goals of
peace, prosperity, and security for all people of the Middle East.
I am proud to be a co-sponsor of House Joint Resolution 102, which
reaffirms the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two
countries on Israel's fiftieth anniversary. On this occasion, I
encourage my colleagues to seize this celebration not only as an
opportunity to reflect on the achievements of Israel's past, but also
to use it as a stimulus to further strengthen the U.S.-Israel
partnership.
Fifty years ago, within minutes of Israel's leaders declaring their
independence, Harry Truman rejected the advice of staff and took a
momentous step in recognizing Israel's sovereignty. From that moment,
the United States and Israel have forged perhaps the closest
partnership in the international community today. it is in this spirit
of friendship and cooperation that I extend my warmest congratulations
and best wishes to the state of Israel and her people for a peaceful,
prosperous and successful future.
Mr. MANZULLO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of House
Joint Resolution 102, a resolution expressing the sense of the Congress
on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of the founding of the modern
state of Israel and reaffirming the bonds of friendship and cooperation
between the United States and Israel. I want to thank Mr. Lantos for
introducing such a timely and appropriate resolution and giving me the
opportunity to be an original cosponsor. I am proud to support this
excellent bill.
House Joint Resolution 102 recognizes the historic significance of
this special anniversary, applauds the Israeli people for building a
vibrant, modern democracy in the face of physical, economic, and
political hostility, reaffirms the deep friendship between our two
countries, and warmly congratulates the Israeli people and extends to
them all the best for a prosperous, safe and successful future.
Mr. Speaker, the United States and Israel share a special
relationship. As our only true democratic friend in the region, Israel
deserves America's strong and unyielding support. I applaud the
unanimous passage of this resolution today and extend to the people of
Israel my very best wishes.
Ms. DeGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.J. Res. 102,
expressing the sense of the Congress on the occasion of the 50th
anniversary of the founding of the modern State of Israel.
I am proud to be a co-sponsor of this important resolution. I look
forward to a unanimous vote by the House that will send a strong
message of our country's unyielding support to the State of Israel.
April 30th will mark the fiftieth anniversary of the birth of the State
of Israel. Israel's extraordinary history makes this milestone
especially significant. Despite incredible challenges and continuous
obstacles, Israel has developed into a prosperous democracy, whose
citizens continue to enjoy the unlimited freedoms that Israel was
created to protect.
The State of Israel and the well being of her people is one of the
foreign policy issues that people in my district care about the most.
There are so many in this country who share a common denominator of
heritage, history and identity with the people of Israel. For many
Jewish-Americans the fate of Israel is something to which they are
inextricably linked.
The United States and Israel have a unique relationship due to the
fact that Israel is our only democratic ally in that region of the
world. There is no better time than right now to reaffirm our
commitment to foreign support for Israel. I believe foreign aid to
Israel is an important way to support and promote the peace talks. I am
concerned that without peace in the Middle East, Israel's second fifty
years will be as tumultuous as her first half century.
At Israel's 100th anniversary, I hope we can look back on Israel's
second fifty years as a period of peace and prosperity where the
challenges that face her today have long faded into history.
Mr. WEYGAND. Mr. Speaker, today I wish to congratulate the State of
Israel on her 50th Anniversary. In fifty years, the people of Israel
have endured many of the same things that our founding fathers did more
than two hundred years ago. They have had to create a government, elect
leaders who had come to their state from various countries around the
world, and establish laws for their new state. Israel has had to defend
her borders from advances first in 1948 to gain her independence within
the Middle East, and again in the Six Day War to assert her autonomy.
Much like the United States did in the 18th Century, Israel continues
to define her character today.
I know in my home state of Rhode Island, many people struggled and
worked very hard to realize the dream of a Zionist state. Former
Governor Frank Licht got his passion for public service by working with
the Rhode Island Zionist Emergency Council. Upon the creation of the
new Jewish state, Governor Licht stated:
The proclamation officially creating the new state is a
milestone in the history of mankind. The 2000 year old dream
of the Jewish people has become a reality. Recognition by the
United States will go far, I hope, towards restoring peace in
the Holy Land . . . I am confident that the state which the
Jewish people set up in their own country will guarantee
justice, freedom, and equality for all people regardless of
religion, race, sex, or land of origin.
I believe, along with my constituents, that the State of Israel will
find a way to ease tensions both internally and externally. Israel has
persevered in building and maintaining a democratic state in the face
of hostility and terrorism. Perhaps in another fifty years we
[[Page H2370]]
will again gather here and commend Israel on solving these problems
with her neighbors.
I commend the people of Israel on their successes over the past fifty
years, and congratulate them wholeheartedly on this milestone in their
history.
Mr. FROST. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.J. Res. 102,
Expressing the Sense of Congress on the Occasion of the 50th
Anniversary of the Founding of the Modern State of Israel. May 14th
will mark the 50th anniversary of its independence. I commend the State
of Israel which has rebuilt a nation, forged a new and dynamic society,
and created a unique and vital economic, political, cultural and
intellectual life. I applaud the relationship held between the United
States and Israel. This relationship is one that is based on mutually
shared Democratic value, common strategic interests, and moral bonds of
friendship and mutual respect. The State of Israel has built a nation
in the face of adversity and triumphed in assuming a prosperous
democracy in their ancient land. The people of Israel have so much to
be proud of, these brave people have battled through a new frontier to
create a new and thriving world for their children.
While I am delighted and quite proud of this fantastic milestone, I
am also filled with promise and hope that both Israel and the
Palestinians will one day come to a peaceful agreement allowing all of
the people of the Middle East to grow and prosper towards another
landmark anniversary celebration.
Mrs. KENNELLY of Connecticut. I rise as a cosponsor of House Joint
Resolution 102 congratulating the State of Israel on its 50th
Anniversary and wish to offer my strong support for this resolution.
Since declaring its independence on May 14th, 1948 the State of
Israel has fought for its very existence and it has succeeded. In the
years that have followed Israel has thrived, it has embraced democracy
and has become and remains the most important ally for the United
States in the Middle East region.
I want to commend the people of Israel for their perseverance through
the difficult times they have faced. They have stood up to terrorism
and aggression and have endured. They have built a vibrant democracy,
with a unique culture, and a diverse economy. Throughout its existence,
Israel has remained focused on its future and on the welfare of its
people.
I am pleased to support this resolution which reaffirms the lasting
bond of friendship between the United Stats and Israel which has been
so important for both nations. Together we make our democracies
stronger and it is together that we can work to ensure that lasting
peace for Israel and throughout the Middle East can become a reality.
I want to extend my sincerest congratulations to the modern state of
Israel on the occasion of their 50th Anniversary and to urge my
colleagues to support this important resolution.
Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, it is fitting as Israel approaches the
fiftieth anniversary of its independence to commemorate this event. It
is also fitting to recognize this historic event here in the U.S.
Congress. The U.S. has been Israel's friend and supporter from its
inception. On a personal level, I have been an ardent supporter of
Israel throughout my life. I became more of a staunch supporter after I
traveled to Israel in 1989 toward the beginning of my Congressional
service.
Once one has seen the many unique features of Israel and its people,
one cannot help but be awestruck by this nation's accomplishments in
its short 50 years. First, Israel has provided a refuge and homeland to
hundreds of thousands of persecuted Jews from the former Soviet Union,
Ethiopia, and many other places. In meeting with Israeli leaders and
residents, I also was struck by their deep commitment to achieving a
lasting peace in the region. This commitment is easily understood as
Israeli Remembrance Day approaches: nearly every citizen has lost a
relative or friend in the effort to protect and defend the land and its
people. Thus, the desire and need to achieve peace for the present and
future generations becomes even more evident.
As a Congressman actively involved in environmental issues, I have
been particularly impressed with the stewardship Israelis exercise over
natural resources. Israelis learn from a young age that every drop of
water is precious. But the pioneers worked the land and developed the
technologies to make these precious drops of water help grow trees,
flowers, and crops, so that the entire nation could not only survive,
but flourish--to the point where they now export flowers and produce
all over the world.
And, while Israelis still bargain over prices in traditional, Middle
Eastern-style market places, they also have developed a light
industrial base that employs many people in high technology and
computer-related fields. One example of the developmental progress that
has occurred can be seen in the telephone systems. When I was last in
Israel a decade ago, making a telephone call was difficult. Today, not
only are phones accessible and easy to use, but cellular phones, call
waiting services, and answering machines are prevalent.
Moreover, Israeli's GDP has grown from $2.5 billion to an astonishing
$90.6 billion in the past three decades. Equally important, if not more
so, is the fact that Israel is the only pluralistic democracy in the
region. At the same time, Jerusalem, the unique ``City of Gold,'' is
the holy site for a number of the world's most important religions. And
yet, this nation is smaller than my home state of New Jersey; one can
walk across the country (East to West) in one day.
David Ben Gurion was prophetic when, on May 15, 1948, he stated that
``[s]omething unique occurred yesterday in Israel, and only future
generations will be able to evaluate the full historical significance
of the event. It is now up to all of us, acting out a sense of Jewish
fraternity, to devote every ounce of our strength to building and
defending the State of Israel, which still faces a titanic political
and military struggle.''
I hope that as we recognize the fiftieth anniversary of its creation,
Israel will soon cease to face such struggles. Yitzhak Rabin was deeply
committed to securing peace for Israel. For this reason, the ``Song for
Peace'' was being sung at the rally where he last spoke, and the words
to this song were found in his shirt pocket at the time of his
assassination. I pray that Rabin, and the many that will have fought
for peace both before and after him, will not have sacrificed their
lives in vain.
In closing, since I have seen the marvels of Israel and its people
first-hand, and have been a strong supporter of Israeli and Jewish
causes throughout my service in Congress, I am particularly pleased to
be a cosponsor of this joint Congressional resolution that is being
brought to the House floor today. The resolution recognizes the
historic significance of the fiftieth anniversary of the
reestablishment of the State of Israel; commends the Israeli people for
their achievements in building a new state and a pluralistic,
democratic society in the Middle East; reaffirms the bonds of
friendship and cooperation between the United States and Israel; and
extends congratulations and best wishes to the State of Israel and her
people for a peaceful, prosperous, and successful future.
Mr. FORBES. Mr. Speaker, this May 14th, the modern state of Israel
will celebrate its 50th birthday. In the life of an ordinary country,
the 50 anniversary is a notable milestone of historical achievement. In
the case of Israel, 50 years exemplifies nothing less than an enduring
miracle.
The Jewish people, drawn to their country by a sacred relationship
and a divine promise, flourished in ancient times. Their history is a
seemingly never ending succession of miracles, punctuated by the
painful sting of suffering. A poor, enslaved people in the land of
Egypt, the Israelites were led by God out of Egypt and into the desert
and freedom. It was there in the barren desert that their leader,
Moses, went up to Mt. Sinai and came down with the Torah, the word of
God. In the midst of their escape and suffering in the barren
wilderness, the Jewish people provided the world with the Ten
Commandments, the foundation of all western morality.
Back in their own country, the Jewish people ultimately realized the
greatness that the Lord had promised. From King David, the poet
warrior, to Solomon, the model of wisdom, the Jews gave us heroes that
stir our hearts and souls still.
Sadly, though, Jewish suffering was not at its end. In 722 B.C.E. the
Assyrians vanquished ten of their twelve tribes and sent the Israelites
into exile. Only two small groups remained, fortified only by an
undying faith in God and a refusal to surrender to the fate their
enemies planned for them. They refused to give up hope. They refused to
give up their faith.
In 586 B.C.E., this small remnant was captured. Their temple, built
by Solomon, was destroyed. Forced into exile to Babylonia, again the
Jewish people thrived. Without a temple, they developed houses of
worship--the historical beginning of synagogues. Unable to offer
sacrifices, their religious leaders developed prayers as a way to reach
the Almighty. Forbidden to publicly worship or have priests, they
developed a new way of thinking of religious leaders as teachers. This
was how the title rabbi came to be.
Miraculously returning from their exile, the Jewish people rebuilt
their Temple in Jerusalem. They wanted nothing more than simply to live
under the grace and peace of God.
But then in the year 70 of the Common Era, the Second Temple was
destroyed by the Romans. During a final revolt against the Romans, at
Masada, the sheared plain that stands in the Judean desert, brave Jews
sacrificed their lives rather than endure as slaves. The Romans forced
Jews to leave and even re-named the country ``Palestine'' named after
the Phoenicians, the enemies of the Jews. The Jewish people had lost
their country and would not recover for nearly two millennia.
By any realistic view of history, the Israelites, few in number,
robbed of their
[[Page H2371]]
homeland and set apart by the cruelest of persecutions, should have
disappeared.
But history is not able to reckon with the Jewish people. Instead of
disappearing, the Jews flourished under the Lord's protective eye,
developing a vast treasure of religious literature and a way of life
that stressed lifelong learning and a striving to lead a moral life.
Through inquisition and torture, through religious coercion and
unendurable pain, the Jewish people held firm to their religious
foundations. Here, in our own century, occurred the Holocaust, the most
monstrous and inhuman evil that mankind has ever inflicted upon itself.
Six million Jews, one and half million of them children, were
systematically murdered. One-third of the Jewish people in the world
died during the Holocaust.
Even during these darkest hours of the Holocaust, when all hope for
the Jewish people seemed to have disappeared, when their very future
hung on the edge of despair, they persevered. Then came Israel.
The modern vision of a Jewish state, nourished by an historic
attachment to the land of Israel, was given expression by the Viennese
journalist Theodor Herzl, who organized the First Zionist Congress in
1897. When the Congress was ended, Herzl noted in his diary that the
Jewish state would come into being in 50 years. It was exactly 50 years
later that Israel was born.
On May 14, 1948, David Ben Gurion announced the birth of the modern
Jewish nation. A day later, Arab armies attacked in full force, in an
attempt to kill it before it had a chance to be born. After a bitter
struggle for its very life, against overwhelming odds and trained
armies, Israel prevailed. Their nation would not die. Masada would not
fall again. David Ben-Gurion, the first Prime Minister and Menachem
Begin, who would later become Prime Minister, both contributed mightily
to Israel's birth. The number of heroes in Israel's birth is
innumerable.
Over the course of the past 50 years, Israel has had to continually
fight for its survival. In both 1956 and 1967, Israel had to defend
itself against the attacks of its antagonistic neighbors. The Six Day
War of '67 was particularly difficult for Israel. When the war was
over, Israel gained control over all of Jerusalem including the Western
Wall, the most sacred site in Jewish life because it is the last
remaining part of the Second Temple. The Jews had returned to their
land and to their holy city. In many ways, they returned to history
itself.
Still, wars followed, though some Arab nations have come to see the
need for peace. However, to this day, many Arabs have not reconciled
themselves to the permanent existence of Israel. Terrorists, rogue
nations, and bitter and implacable enemies continue to threaten Israel.
Yet at 50, Israel has never been stronger.
Perhaps, especially for the Jews, but finally for all decent people,
the very existence of Israel remains a symbol. Israel's historic return
as a nation offers hope and reassurance for people the world over who
are struggling to realize their own homeland. Israel's refusal to
surrender to enduring horrors provides a model of courage for those in
need of strength. Israel's commitment to democracy and religious
freedom is a wonderful example for those who believe that nations can
be both strong and decent.
Israel will always possess a special place in the heart and mind of
the United States. Israel is, of course, a vital military ally,
paramount in its support of the U.S. in the United Nations, and a
dependable military source of information and support. Beyond these
prudential reasons, however, Israel means much more to us. Sentinels of
democracy, both nations were founded in pursuit of the righteous cause
of liberty and human dignity. Citizens of both great nations have
sacrificed their own lives in defense of freedom and in battle against
tyranny. Neither America nor Israel is willing to accept the
exploitation and oppression of innocent people by despotic rulers.
The truth is that Israel is not just another nation; it is part of
our family. As one brother to another, we in the United States rejoice
as we celebrate Israel's 50th birthday. Let us use this moment to vow
to stand forever by Israel's side. Let every enemy of Israel know that
the United States stands firmly beside Israel. We will never be silent
when Israel is in danger. We will never let Israel's enemies win.
We stand with Israel. We wait in excitement to witness the miraculous
achievements that Israel will have in the next 50 years.
Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. Speaker. This week we celebrate the 50th anniversary
of the State of Israel, a truly momentous occasion. For Jews in Israel,
America, and around the world this is a time of great celebration.
For 50 years, Israel has struggled to survive in a region of
hostility, surrounded by neighbors who sought to destroy her. For 50
years, Israel has labored to transform a desert into a land of milk and
honey and for 50 years, Israel has become a beacon of democracy, a land
of freedom and a homeland for Jews everywhere.
Mr. Speaker, dear colleagues, let us join together in wishing Israel
a happy 50th and a hearty ``mazel tov.''
Mr. GILMAN. Mr. Speaker, I once again ask my colleagues to support
this resolution, and I yield back the balance of my time.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. The question is on the motion offered by the
gentleman from New York (Mr. Gilman) that the House suspend the rules
and pass the joint resolution, H.J. Res. 102.
The question was taken.
Mr. LANTOS. Mr. Speaker, on that I demand the yeas and nays.
The yeas and nays were ordered.
The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursuant to clause 5 of rule I and the
Chair's prior announcement, further proceedings on this motion will be
postponed.
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