Political Quotes

“today I congratulate Prime Minister- elect Ariel Sharon for his recent victory over Prime Minister Ehud Barak. Israel is facing a very difficult situation in trying to pursue peace with the Palestinians while at the same time trying to protect the people of Israel from the forces seeking their destruction. I am hopeful that Prime Minister-elect Sharon will continue to explore options for peace with Chairman Arafat, but there must be a secession of hostilities before any new peace negotiations can commence. The Middle East peace process is at a crossroads. As we saw by the election returns, the Israeli people do not feel secure in their own homes and communities. Chairman Arafat is responsible for this feeling because it is his followers who are pursuing the course of violence. Prime Minister-elect Sharon will have to confront this violence with whatever means necessary to restore some semblance of order. However, it is my hope that more violence will not be necessary to move the peace process.”