Political Quotes

“Like those who supported the resolution, I am profoundly saddened by the loss of life precipitated by the recent outbreak of violence in Gaza and the West Bank. My support for the State of Israel and Israeli people as my voting record has demonstrated during my brief tenure here in the Congress has been unwavering. However, I could not support the resolution in the form it was presented yesterday because in my view it unfairly and broadly assigned blame for the violence in the Middle East. A lasting Middle East peace can only be achieved if all parties demonstrate courage in the negotiation process. Central to this is the immediate renunciation of all violence and an expression of willingness by both sides to return to the negotiating table. Chairman Arafat's words and actions demonstrate his unwillingness to participate. I strongly support President Clinton's efforts to bring both sides to the negotiating table to begin again the slow and often difficult work that is necessary to ensure a lasting and just peace.”