[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 65 (Tuesday, May 23, 2006)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E942-E943]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                 PALESTINIAN ANTI-TERRORISM ACT OF 2006

                                 ______
                                 

                               speech of

                          HON. JOHN B. LARSON

                             of connecticut

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, May 22, 2006

  Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Madam Speaker, I regret that because of a 
family medical emergency I could not be present when the House voted 
today and I would like to submit this statement for the record in 
support of H.R. 4681, the Palestinian Anti-Terrorism Act.
  Hamas' continued refusal to recognize the existence of Israel, 
enforce existing peace agreements and renounce terrorism represents a 
real threat to progress in the Middle East peace process. It is 
therefore critical that the United States send the strongest possible 
signal to Hamas that a government based on fear and intolerance is 
unacceptable. H.R. 4681 is an important step towards addressing the 
extreme and unproductive positions currently held by Hamas-Ied 
Palestinian Authority. However, there are some in Connecticut and 
across the country that remain concerned that the bill goes too far in 
restricting the financial assistance the Palestinian people rely on or 
may have far-reaching and unintended consequences. To this end, I look 
forward to

[[Page E943]]

working with my colleagues to ensure that this bill achieves our common 
shared goal of fostering a Palestinian government that is a full 
partner in achieving a peaceful solution to the Israeli-Palestinian 
conflict.

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