[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 106 (Friday, July 29, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1690]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     CHALLENGES IN THE MIDDLE EAST

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                          HON. JOE KNOLLENBERG

                              of michigan

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, July 28, 2005

  Mr. KNOLLENBERG. Mr. Speaker, with the world watching, Israel 
announced on April 18, 2004 its disengagement plan to withdraw Israeli 
settlers from the Gaza Strip and four West Bank settlements. Intended 
to improve security for Israeli citizens, Israel's disengagement plan 
also creates a possibility for greater Middle East peace.
  Beginning in 1948, hostile nations have denied Israel's right to 
exist. Today, violence from terrorist organizations not only threatens 
stability in the region but the sovereignty of the Israeli people.
  With the future uncertain, we must recognize one thing: freedom and 
security can be the future for both the Palestinian and Israeli people. 
The impending disengagement creates the opportunity for progress 
towards this goal.
  We must recognize the difficulties Israel will face and support our 
dependable ally. We must also support efforts by the Palestinian 
leadership to fight terror and create more peaceful, sound Palestinian 
regions.
  And, as Americans who have faced threats to our own existence, we 
must never forget what freedom is.

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