[Congressional Record Volume 146, Number 136 (Thursday, October 26, 2000)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1953]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]


                   CONCERNING VIOLENCE IN MIDDLE EAST

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                        HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR.

                             of new jersey

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, October 24, 2000

  Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, today, the House of Representatives voted 
overwhelmingly for H. Con. Res. 426, a resolution Concerning the 
Violence in the Middle East. I voted in favor of its passage, however, 
I wish to register my continued concerns about the state of affairs in 
the Middle East.
  We must be clear: there is bloodshed in both Palestinian and Israeli 
neighborhoods; mothers of both Palestinians and Israelis mourn over 
their dead and dying; there is distrust and cultural pride in both 
Palestinian and Israeli hearts. This situation is not exclusive to one 
side: it is a mutual tragedy.
  I am proud that the United States has played the role of an honest 
broker during these recent weeks. Moreover, I support the efforts made 
by our Nation and our President to broker peace between these warring 
parties in the Middle East. I believe that the United States needs to 
continue dedicating our resources towards the effort of lasting and 
sincere peace. I voted in favor of passage of the Foreign Operations 
Appropriations bill, which provides funding and resources for both 
Palestinians and Israelis.
  However, I am profoundly disappointed in what seems to be the 
inability of PLO Chairman Yassar Arafat to effectively communicate 
order and calm within his ranks. I see, more often than not, 
Palestinian rebels throwing rocks and stones in mob rule fashion. It is 
incumbent upon Chairman Arafat to restore order and, until that occurs, 
the United States will find it difficult to maintain its honest broker 
status.
  I want to reiterate my unflagging commitment to the peace process in 
the Middle East. Now is not the time for the United States to pick a 
side. Rather, it is time for us to be prepared to play an integral and 
historic role in helping restore peace in that region. Without the help 
of both Palestinians and Israelis, this accomplishment will be 
impossible.

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