[Congressional Record Volume 154, Number 65 (Wednesday, April 23, 2008)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E692]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




RECOGNIZING THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE FOUNDING OF THE MODERN STATE OF 
                                 ISRAEL

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                               speech of

                             HON. TOM DAVIS

                              of virginia

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 22, 2008

  Mr. DAVIS of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong support of 
H. Con. Res. 322.
  Following the allied victory in World War II, the United Nations 
voted to partition the British Mandate of Palestine, leading the way 
for the people of the region to create, on May 14, 1948, the State of 
Israel. United States recognition of the State of Israel came within 
hours of Israel's creation. Since that historic day in 1948, the United 
States and Israel have remained steadfast allies and friends. On May 
11, 1949, the Government of Israel was officially admitted as a member 
of the United Nations.
  Since the creation of the State of Israel, enemies of freedom and 
peace have persistently attempted to undermine Israel's right to exist. 
The very day after the creation of Israel, rogue Arab forces from 
surrounding Middle Eastern countries invaded the land given to Israel 
based on the U.N. partition. Though less than 24 hours old, the nascent 
country staved off the invasion, and on June 7, 1949, a cease-fire was 
called, resulting in Israel acquiring western Galilee, a broad corridor 
through central Palestine to Jerusalem, and part of modern Jerusalem.
  Subsequent attempts to undermine Israel's security have all failed, 
and Israel has become stronger at each turn. In 1956, 1967, 1973, and 
1982, attacks on Israel by her neighbors in the region were met with 
fierce resistance and resounding defeat for Israel's enemies.
  In 1988, Yasir Arafat, then leader of the Palestinian Liberation 
Organization--a group which had for decades fiercely opposed Israel's 
right to exist--officially acknowledged Israel's sovereign right, and 
announced his willingness to enter negotiations for peace. Although 
peace talks have yet to produce a lasting accord, discussions between 
the relevant parties have met with progress. It is my firm belief that 
peace can and will be achieved in the region. It is clear that Israel's 
right to exist is fully established. The United States will continue to 
stand shoulder-to-shoulder with her friend until and beyond that day 
when peace is established.
  Israel is a shining example of the success that a democracy can 
produce. Because of the freedom that Israelis enjoy, Israel has been at 
the forefront of innovation. Israeli scientists have made significant 
contributions to genetics, medicine, electronics, engineering, and the 
high-tech world. Indeed, the very cell phones that the world over has 
become accustomed to using were first invented by Israeli 
entrepreneurs.
  Mr. Speaker, it is my great pleasure to congratulate the State of 
Israel on her 60th Anniversary. I encourage my colleagues to support H. 
Con. Res. 322.

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