Mike Levin: “this act recognizes the role that Syria continues to play in promoting instability and terrorism in the Middle East.…”

“this act recognizes the role that Syria continues to play in promoting instability and terrorism in the Middle East. Syria's support for terrorism, its occupation of Lebanon and efforts toward the development of weapons of mass destruction threaten to hinder efforts to encourage democracy, the rule of law and a lasting peace in the region. As such, this bill represents an effort by Congress to express its outrage with these actions and urge President Bush to take the needed steps that will prod Syria to halt these actions. Syria has long been on the State Department's list of terrorist nations, and is known to support numerous terrorist organizations including Hizballah, Hamas and the General Command of the Popular Front for the Liberation of Palestine. Just as importantly, the presence of Syrian troops thwarts the democratic aspirations of the Lebanese people. The Taif accords which mapped out a security program for Lebanon included Syria's commitment to the 'security independence and unity of Lebanon' and its opposition to any action that 'threatens security independence or [the] sovereignty' of Lebanon. The current Syrian military presence in Lebanon and its influence in domestic Lebanese politics runs counter to these commitments. This legislation seeks to address the more pernicious elements of Syria's foreign policy, and I support that goal. That being said, this legislation is not perfect.”