[Congressional Record Volume 152, Number 94 (Tuesday, July 18, 2006)]
[Senate]
[Page S7749]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                     THE CRISIS IN THE MIDDLE-EAST

  Mr. FEINGOLD. Mr. President, I stand firmly with the people of Israel 
and their government as they defend themselves against these outrageous 
attacks. The kidnapping of Israeli soldiers and missile attacks against 
Israeli citizens are unacceptable and cannot be tolerated.
  The first steps toward establishing peace must begin with the 
unconditional and immediate return of the kidnapped Israeli soldiers. 
Lebanon, Syria, Iran, and countries throughout the region must also 
condemn the actions of and cease all forms of support of Hezbollah, 
Hamas, and other groups committed to blocking or derailing the pursuit 
of peace. These countries must take strong actions immediately to 
return stability to the region.
  Any sustainable peace depends on the cessation of support for 
terrorist organizations. U.N. resolutions have clearly articulated 
obligations and requirements of countries throughout the region. Iran 
and Syria must stop all support for Hezbollah and Hamas immediately.
  That said, all sides to this conflict must show as much restraint as 
possible. It is in the long-term interest of peace that parties to this 
conflict find an end to this current crisis without damaging the 
prospects for a sustained and permanent solution to this conflict.

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