[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 61 (Thursday, April 26, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E675]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              IN COMMEMORATION OF ISRAELI INDEPENDENCE DAY

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                          HON. SUSAN A. DAVIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 26, 2012

  Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of 
the contribution of the State of Israel as it celebrates its 64th 
anniversary as a vibrant and open democratic society.
  I had the great privilege to live and work in Israel in the mid-
1960's and celebrated Israel's 22nd anniversary by taking part in a 
three-day walk from the shores of Tel Aviv to the hills of Jerusalem.
  Now, I marvel with every visit at the extraordinary changes that have 
taken place.
  In its 64 years, Israel has managed some incredible achievements.
  Israel leads the world in the number of scientists and technicians in 
the workforce per capita. These Israeli scientists have made great 
contributions to human understanding and invented revolutionary 
products.
  The cell phone was developed in Israel by Israelis.
  Israeli doctors and researchers have produced countless medical 
advances helping those with diseases such as cancer and Parkinsons.
  Israel is also a leader in conservation and renewable energy. In 
fact, Israel is the only country in the world that entered the 21st 
century with a net gain in its number of trees, made more remarkable 
because this was achieved in an area considered mainly desert.
  These achievements are truly inspiring. But the daily news reports 
from the Middle East continue to remind us of the daunting challenges 
that Israel faces.
  Foremost among those challenges is the existential threat posed by a 
nuclear Iran. There is no debate here--Iran's leadership many times has 
stated that, ``Israel must be wiped off the map.'' Containment of a 
nuclear Iran is simply not an option for the United States or Israel.
  In light of the ongoing threat from Iran and other neighboring 
countries, the United States must remain firm in its steadfast 
commitment to the security of Israel as an independent, democratic 
Jewish state. We must continue to provide Israel with the military 
capabilities and intelligence necessary to defend itself.
  In addition, Israel still lacks a real partner for peace with the 
Palestinians. However, this does not mean efforts for peace should not 
continue.
  As we know well, achieving peace will not be easy, but I remain 
hopeful that Israel, her neighbors and the U.S. can get the peace 
process back on track and that Israel will continue to thrive as a 
vibrant and open democratic society.
  I join my colleagues in recognizing Israel's 64th Anniversary.

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