[Congressional Record Volume 150, Number 55 (Tuesday, April 27, 2004)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E669]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 CELEBRATION OF ISRAEL INDEPENDENCE DAY

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                        HON. CAROLYN B. MALONEY

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 27, 2004

  Mrs. MALONEY. Mr. Speaker, today we commemorate Yom Ha'Atzmaut, 
Israel's Independence Day. For 56 years, Israel has been forced by its 
neighbors and many in the international community to fight for the 
right to exist. As the only country in the region with a popularly 
elected democracy, Israel remains our staunchest ally.
  In the face of continuous terror, citizens of Israel try to lead a 
normal life. However, they remain haunted by acts of violence that they 
have witnessed. Sadly, many have felt the anguish of knowing someone 
who has been murdered. Many are afraid to ride buses, sit in cafes, or 
visit outdoor markets. The pursuit of happiness, often taken for 
granted in the United States, is summarily abridged by those that seek 
to destroy Israel.
  The majority of Israeli citizens desire peace with their neighbors. 
They want to be free from terrorist attacks and free from the constant 
fear that plagues them. On this day, Yom Ha'Atzmaut, we must pledge to 
work to further the goal of peace in the Middle East and ensure the 
continued existence of the lone representative democracy in the region, 
our friend and ally, Israel. Let us not forget that this is a day of 
celebration for Israelis who commemorate the establishment of Israel 
with great joy. Against all odds, the fledgling Jewish State has 
survived and grown into a stable, economically strong country.

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