[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 147 (2001), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page 24986]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]


[[Page 24986]]

                          PERSONAL EXPLANATION

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. LUIS V. GUTIERREZ

                              of illinois

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, December 11, 2001

  Mr. GUTIERREZ. Mr. Speaker, a previously scheduled commitment 
prevented me from being in Washington, D.C. and voting on H. Con. Res. 
280 on December 4, 2001. Consistent with my record of strong support 
for Israel, I would have voted yes on this important legislation. H. 
Con. Res. 280 expresses solidarity with the people of Israel in the 
fight against terrorism.
  The horrific murders of 26 innocent people by Palestinian terrorists 
during the weekend of December 1-2 make clear the need for all 
Americans to show their support for the people and Israel during this 
dangerous and troubled time. Our nation has no more consistent friend 
and ally in the international struggle against terrorism than Israel. 
The people of Israel set an invaluable international example with their 
commitment to democracy and freedom and dedication to working for 
peace. The people of Israel continue to pay a high price for these 
ideals. Their nation remains a target of a deadly and unrelenting 
terror campaign that is often aimed directly at young people and 
families. Israel deserves and needs our unwavering support at this 
difficult time.
  I strongly support the resolution's call for the Palestinian 
Authority to destroy the infrastructure of Palestinian terrorist groups 
and to pursue and arrest terrorist whose incarceration has been called 
for by Israel. I strongly urge President bush to take any and all steps 
to assure these goals are met, including suspending all relations with 
Yasir Arafat and the Palestinian Authority if necessary.
  The safety and security of all people of the world who value freedom 
and respect the rule of law has never been more threatened. The United 
States and Israel must remain the closest of allies in our mutual quest 
to stop terrorism and work for peace. I am pleased to give H. Con. Res. 
280 my unqualified support.

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