[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 156 (2010), Part 3]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 4007-4008]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       U.S. RELATIONS WITH ISRAEL

                                 ______
                                 

                             HON. DAN BOREN

                              of oklahoma

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 19, 2010

  Mr. BOREN. Madam Speaker, I rise today to insert my views into the 
Record regarding the importance of the relationship between the United 
States and Israel.

[[Page 4008]]

  Vice President Biden's visit last week to Israel and subsequent 
public statements made by U.S. and Israeli officials have given rise to 
a storm of speculation about the strength and durability of the 
alliance between our two nations.
  The Obama administration in recent days has expressed frustration 
over an announcement made by the Israeli government during the Vice 
President's visit that it intends to build 1,600 additional housing 
units in East Jerusalem.
  The administration contends such plans place in jeopardy its 
initiative to resume peace talks between Israelis and Palestinians, and 
has publically rebuked Israel for last week's announcement, an act 
seldom seen from U.S. Government officials.
  These events deeply concern me, and I find the administration's 
rhetoric troubling. Now is the time for greater solidarity between the 
United States and Israel, not less.
  We cannot forget that the United States faces considerable challenges 
in the Middle East. Iran is quickly advancing its nuclear and ballistic 
missile capabilities to threaten the United States and our allies in 
the Middle East and Europe. Our significant political and military 
gains in Iraq and Afghanistan remain fragile and reversible. Moreover, 
the Middle East remains the epicenter of violent extremism, serving as 
a base for terrorist groups who continue to plan and launch attacks 
against America.
  The United States cannot confront these threats alone. Israel has 
been our most critical partner in the Middle East, helping us to 
protect our national security. The ability of the United States to 
defeat our adversaries depends on Israeli support.
  Bringing my remarks to conclusion, the relationship between the 
United States and Israel rests firmly upon the foundation of more than 
half a century of history. It is grounded in mutual respect, supported 
by shared values, and guided by our common long-term interests. 
Therefore, our alliance remains strong and, despite what some may 
speculate, it will not succumb to the shifting politics of the day or 
to petty disagreements.
  Madam Speaker, for these reasons I call upon the President, members 
of his administration, and my fellow members of Congress, to remain 
steadfast in their unwavering commitment to the relationship between 
the United States and Israel.

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