Political Quotes

On the recordJune 9, 2010
Let there be no doubt in anyone's mind: Israel has the right to defend herself and the responsibility to protect her citizens from Hamas, which denies Israel's right to exist and rains rockets down on its citizens. While Israel reviews the flotilla incident and considers the best way to implement the Gaza blockade, we must not forget that failure to prevent weapons and other illicit materials from reaching Hamas would be a dereliction of Israel's most basic responsibility to its people. I stand firmly in support of Israel's right to self-defense, and I am committed to maintaining Israel's qualitative military edge so she can continue to defend her citizens. As the blame-Israel-first crowd continues to attack our democratic ally, Israel, over a host of challenges in the Middle East, I am reminded of a simple yet powerful concept: 'Words matter.' The inflammatory rhetoric surrounding events in the Middle East in recent weeks and months only begets more hostility and discourages efforts towards a lasting peace agreement which the people of Israel, the people of the West Bank, and the people of Gaza deserve; and these words can incite those encouraging violence against Israel.
Said by
Nita Lowey
Democratic · New York

Editor's note · Context

The speaker addresses Israel's right to self-defense and the impact of rhetoric on peace efforts in the Middle East.

Share

More from Nita Lowey

Oct 1, 2020

I am delighted to yield 5 minutes to the gentlewoman from California (Ms. Waters), the chair of the Committee on Financial Services.

govinfo.gov
May 15, 2020

I am delighted to yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. Kaptur), my friend, the distinguished chair of the subcommittee that does so much good work here.

govinfo.gov
Oct 1, 2020

I am delighted to yield 1 minute to the gentlemen from Illinois (Mr. Garcia).

govinfo.gov
Jul 23, 2020

This package of appropriations bills will help make our Nations stronger at home and respected again in the world. Together, we can bolster food security, combat climate change, protect our environment, aid the world's most vulnerable…

govinfo.gov

Other voices in this conversation