[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 150 (2004), Part 6]
[Senate]
[Page 7656]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




           IN RECOGNITION OF 56 YEARS OF ISRAELI INDEPENDENCE

  Mr. CHAFEE. Mr. President, I rise today to congratulate Israel on 56 
years of independence. Last year, I visited Israel in my capacity as 
Chairman of the Subcommittee on Near Eastern and South Eastern Affairs 
of the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations. This was my first visit 
to Israel, and I was tremendously impressed with how much has been 
accomplished by this tiny country over the last several decades. I also 
was reminded of how much Israel has suffered at the hands of suicide 
bombers, who have killed hundreds of Israelis and greatly set back the 
cause of peace.
  In the past, I have expressed disappointment that the United States 
has not worked harder to advance the Israeli-Palestinian peace process, 
as well concerns about specific actions by the Israeli government. 
However, these concerns should not be misinterpreted as a lack of 
support for Israel or a lack of recognition of the very real threats 
that she faces. I am strongly committed to the long-term security of 
Israel, and I will continue to work towards the vision of a safe and 
secure Israel at peace with her Arab neighbors.
  Israelis can be proud of the vibrant democracy that they have 
created, and I know that many Rhode Islanders share my deep 
appreciation for the close friendship between our two nations. I once 
again offer my congratulations and best wishes to the Israeli people.

                          ____________________