[Congressional Record Volume 155, Number 3 (Thursday, January 8, 2009)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E46]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    ADDRESSING THE SITUATION IN GAZA

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. JERRY McNERNEY

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Thursday, January 8, 2009

  Mr. McNERNEY. Madam Speaker, I take this opportunity to express my 
concern about events in Israel and Gaza, and my support for Israel's 
right to defend itself against rocket attacks launched from the Hamas-
controlled Gaza Strip. The region must have a meaningful resolution 
that will permanently end these rocket attacks and open a pathway to 
alleviate civilian suffering and develop a secure and prosperous 
Palestinian society. Hamas' rocket attacks targeting civilians 
triggered the current crisis. Any country is compelled to defend its 
civilians against attack.
  The situation in the region has reached a new level of violence, and 
each civilian death is tragic. The images of suffering innocents, 
especially children, in both the Gaza Strip and Israel are a stark 
reminder that it is long past time for this region to know peace. The 
United States must be deeply involved in the peace process while 
vigorously working for short and long term solutions that will provide 
security to Israel and the means for a better future to Palestinians.

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