[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 7, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E29]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    ISRAEL'S MILITARY ACTION IN GAZA

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                         HON. JERRY F. COSTELLO

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, January 7, 2009

  Mr. COSTELLO. Madam Speaker, for the past several years, Israelis 
living near Gaza have endured a continual state of fear due to the 
thousands of rocket attacks launched from there by Hamas. When the six-
month cease fire between Hamas and Israel recently ended, Hamas 
responded almost immediately by firing more than 70 missiles at 
civilian targets within Israel. On December 27th, Israel, in an act of 
self defense, struck at Hamas targets in Gaza in response to these 
continued attacks, and I want to express my strong support for Israel's 
right of self-defense.
  Israel has taken meaningful steps in recent years to push the peace 
process forward, including unilaterally withdrawing from Gaza in 2005. 
Unfortunately, Hamas has not met Israel's efforts towards a peaceful 
coexistence, and has instead increased military operations against its 
neighbor and continues to deny Israel's right to exist.
  These unfortunate developments are tragic, but have been precipitated 
by Hamas' aggression. Hamas must stop the rocket attacks and all 
parties in the region need to commit to renewing efforts at peace. The 
U.S. should remain involved in the peace process and I will continue to 
work with my colleagues in Congress towards this goal.

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