[Congressional Record Volume 158, Number 147 (Friday, November 16, 2012)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1794]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                    REP. BARLETTA STANDS WITH ISRAEL

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. LOU BARLETTA

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, November 16, 2012

  Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in solidarity with our 
friends in Israel.
  We've recently seen Hamas, the Palestinian terrorist organization, 
target Israeli cities with large civilian populations, like Tel Aviv. 
Since last Wednesday, more than 500 rockets have been fired at Israel 
generally targeting schools, playgrounds, homes, and other civilian 
targets. Innocent civilians trying to live in peace are purposely 
placed in the middle of the violence. This ratchets up the conflict, 
and brings both sides to the brink of a dangerous confrontation. Israel 
has the right to defend itself, particularly when its civilian 
population is directly targeted by Hamas. Americans must stand with 
Israel as it confronts these terrorists.
  Mr. Speaker, I condemn the evil actions of Hamas, and I pray for the 
safety of all innocent civilians caught in the middle of this 
escalating violence.

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