Political Quotes

“Madam Speaker, I rise today to express my support for H. Res. 1359, which calls for the immediate and unconditional release of Gilad Shalit, the Israeli soldier held captive by Hamas since June 25, 2006. Today, 4 years later, Shalit remains a prisoner and Hamas has denied him medical treatment and access to his family. I agree with the resolution's sponsors that his imprisonment is not only a violation of international law and an affront to the international community, but has also impeded the peace process between Israel and Palestine. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has caused tragedy and loss of enormous proportions on both sides. I know that all of my colleagues oppose further loss of life and will support a lasting peace in this region. I am hopeful for the day when two states--an Israeli and a Palestinian state--can peacefully exist side by side. Until that day, both sides must work towards peace and must refrain from aggressive actions. The kidnapping and ongoing inhumane treatment of Gilad Shalit has exacerbated tensions in the region, causing heartache for Sgt. Shalit's family and country, and making peace negotiations more difficult. I stand for peace and human rights and am proud to support this resolution. I can see no justification for Sgt. Shalit's continued imprisonment and urge Hamas to release Sgt. Shalit. I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting peace and human rights by supporting this important resolution.”