[Congressional Record Volume 156, Number 162 (Thursday, December 9, 2010)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E2108-E2109]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




           EXTENDING CONDOLENCES TO VICTIMS OF FIRE IN ISRAEL

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                               speech of

                             HON. AL GREEN

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 7, 2010

  Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues in 
supporting H. Res. 1751, a resolution mourning the loss of life and 
extending condolences to the families affected by the fire in northern 
Israel. Thank you to my colleague, Representative Ron Klein, for 
offering this resolution.
  I would like to offer my sincere condolences to the families and 
loved ones who have lost their lives in the fires in northern Israel. 
We stand by Israel during this difficult time and pledge our assistance 
in the wake of this tragedy.
  On December 2, 2010, a massive wildfire broke out in the northern 
region of Israel, near the city of Haifa. The four day fire ravaged the

[[Page E2109]]

Carmel mountain forests, forcing the evacuation of over 17,000 
residents. One of the worst forest fires in Israel's history, this 
inferno claimed as many as 40 lives.
  The fire damaged about 5 million trees and 12,000 acres. In a country 
where only 7 percent of the land is forested, the loss of precious 
woodland was felt as a national loss. In total, the fire caused about 
$74 million in damages, including 250 homes.
  In response to this tragedy, the United States and the international 
community stepped in to help Israel battle the flames. The U.S. 
answered Israel's request for assistance by providing much needed 
supplies, technical expertise, and equipment.
  I applaud the individuals, businesses and philanthropic organizations 
across the United Sates and throughout the international community who 
have responded to the devastation in Israel with an outpouring of 
generosity and support.
  With help from the United States and our friends worldwide, Israel 
will overcome this challenge. We pledge our continued support as Israel 
works to restore damaged communities, replenish wildlife, and plant new 
forests.

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