[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 67 (Thursday, May 25, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E873]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




         COMMENDING ISRAEL'S REDEPLOYMENT FROM SOUTHERN LEBANON

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. DAVID E. BONIOR

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Wednesday, May 24, 2000

  Mr. BONIOR. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased that the government of Israel 
has followed through on its commitment to withdraw its troops from 
Southern Lebanon.
  This is a step that could end one of the most tragic episodes in the 
difficult recent history of the Middle East.
  I commend the government of Prime Minister Ebud Barak for fulfilling 
its commitment to withdraw Israeli troops from Lebanon, and I urge my 
colleagues to join me in supporting this resolution.
  I have always believed that all foreign forces should leave Lebanon.
  We have seen what the cycle of violence has done to people of all 
faiths and backgrounds in Lebanon and throughout the Middle East. And 
while it is important to reflect on the past, we must also move 
forward.
  Today, I join with the many voices which are renewing the call for 
peace. Those who want to perpetuate the violence will try to stand in 
our way but we can't let that happen.
  We must stand together and demand that all the parties work for 
peace, seek justice, and forsake violence. That is our only option. Let 
that be our task in the days ahead.
  Step by step, over time, the withdrawal of troops and other measures 
will build tolerance and mutual respect, so that differences are 
settled not with guns, but with compassion and understanding.
  Mr. Speaker, we must all learn to not let our differences stand in 
the way of joining together for a common purpose. I believe that if all 
parties work together in good faith peace can be achieved.

                          ____________________