[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 67 (Thursday, May 25, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E847]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         COMMENDING ISRAEL'S REDEPLOYMENT FROM SOUTHERN LEBANON

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. JANICE D. SCHAKOWSKY

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                         Thursday, May 25, 2000

  Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of H. Con. Res. 
331, a bill that commends Israel's redeployment from southern Lebanon. 
I commend and thank my colleagues, the sponsors of this resolution for 
giving all members an opportunity to formally support Israel's recent 
withdrawal from southern Lebanon.
  We have all witnessed some tough times in Israel's journey toward the 
peace it desires. This unilateral and courageous step shows the world 
and especially those in the Middle East that Israel is committed to 
moving forward for peace.
  This decisive action on Israel's part is one of many risks Israel's 
leaders have proven willing to take in order to make peace a reality. I 
commend Prime Minister Barak, the members of the Knesset, and the 
people of Israel for their courage and resolve. I also want to 
acknowledge the important work of so many in our country who have 
devoted time and energy to ensuring a bright future for Israel.
  I am committed to supporting Israel and helping to guarantee her 
security so that the dream of peace in the Middle East may one day be a 
reality.
  Along with my colleagues, I hope to see the United Nations bring 
about a more secure environment in southern Lebanon, including taking 
action to disband any terrorist organizations in that area.
  I am so proud of Israel for taking this meaningful step toward peace. 
While Israel has shown great restraint in the face of violence, I want 
to reassert my belief that Israel has every right to protect itself 
against terrorists or attacks by other nations. Israel is the United 
States' closest ally in the Middle East and other nations would not be 
wise to test the strength of the U.S.-Israel relationship.
  Again, I applaud Israel for this bold move, and I urge all parties in 
the Middle East to reenter serious negotiations for peace in the Middle 
East. I urge all of my colleagues to vote in support of H. Con. Res. 
331, so that this body can be on record in our support for Israel's 
efforts to bring peace to that nation and the region.

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