Worth Repeating: House Leaders Praise Israel

5/16/2008

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In a landmark display of support for America’s friendship with Israel, the House and Senate overwhelmingly passed resolutions recognizing the 60th anniversary of Israel’s birth and reaffirming the close bond between the two democracies. In the Senate, the resolution was cosponsored by the entire chamber and passed by unanimous consent. The House approved its version by a resounding vote of 417-0.

Leading up to the vote, the Democratic Israel Working Group and the House Republican Israel Caucus encouraged members of Congress to give floor speeches praising Israel. More than 70 lawmakers have delivered statements. Excerpts from key Congressional leaders’ remarks can be found below:

Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA)
Speaker of the House
"The creation of Israel stands out as one of the greatest achievements of the 20th century, and as a beacon of hope to the world. In America’s partnership with Israel, we have both given support and we have drawn strength. We share a common history—nations founded to be beacons of democracy, forged by pioneers, and fulfilled by immigrants in search of a better tomorrow. We also share a common cause—a safe and secure Israel, living in peace with her neighbors.”

Rep. John Boehner (R-OH)
House Republican Leader
“After 60 years, Israel may not be our oldest ally, but there is no doubt that it’s among our most treasured. Since its establishment six decades ago, Israel has been a pillar of strength, integrity, freedom and, above all else, friendship. They’re not simply allies by chance. Our friendship has flourished over the last 60 years because we share the same values. The bonds of trust between Israel and America have never been stronger or more important than they are right now.”

Rep. Steny Hoyer (D-MD)
House Majority Leader
“As our allies in Israel celebrate their 60th anniversary of independence, let us honor their determination to fulfill the vision of Zionism’s founding father, Theodor Herzl, who observed, ‘If you will it, it is no dream.’ Through courage and will, Israel was born and the dream of generations was made real—and it will endure. I want to congratulate the citizens of Israel and the entire Jewish community on this important anniversary of Israel’s founding.”

Rep. Eric Cantor (R-VA)
Chief Deputy Republican Whip
“60 years ago, outnumbered and under-equipped, the Jews of Palestine beat back five invading Arab armies to win a miraculous victory. Thus, the 2,000-year-old dream of reestablishing a state in the Jewish ancestral homeland was realized. Since then, Israel has wrought out of barren desert and swamp a vibrant and flourishing state. It has harnessed its ingenuity to join the world’s ranks of leaders in science, technology and cancer research. Israel remains a vital ally in the globe’s most dangerous region.”

Rep. Howard Berman (D-CA)
Chairman, House Foreign Affairs Committee
“Now it is time to reaffirm our nation’s pledge to Israel: that we will stand in solidarity with Israel against all violent assaults on its security and well-being. And, most of all, it is the time to say to our friend and ally, Israel: Congratulations on your incredible social, political, economic, and technological achievements in the face of the most stupefying odds. We in the United States could not be prouder of our special relationship with you.”

Rep. Ileana Ros-Lehtinen (R-FL)
Ranking Member, House Foreign Affairs Committee
“Israel’s existence is indispensable to advancing America’s most basic interests and values. For decades, our two nations have successfully collaborated on everything from science and business to defense and homeland security. As America goes forward, fighting for a free and prosperous world and against violent extremist groups who seek our ruin, Israel once again stands with us. And America will and must continue to stand with Israel for the next 60 years and beyond.”

Visit www.aipac.org to view more floor speeches from members of Congress.

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