Kevin Brady: “I appreciate, first, the leadership of Ms. Ros-Lehtinen and Mr. Lantos on this important issue of leadership, not just…”

“I appreciate, first, the leadership of Ms. Ros-Lehtinen and Mr. Lantos on this important issue of leadership, not just this critical time, but throughout the years. Yes, I strongly support the resolution, but listening tonight I think there has been some odd debate. To suggest, as some did, that Israel and America have somehow conspired to encourage this attack on Israel as an excuse to invade or attack Iran, to me, is absurd. {time} 2145 It is a dangerous claim, and at this important and critical time in history has no real place in this important debate on this floor in this Chamber in this democracy. We reaffirm America's support for the State of Israel. We support Israel's right to take appropriate action to defend itself not only in Israel, but in the territories of those who would threaten it in accordance with the international law. We condemn Hamas and Hezbollah for cynically exploiting civilian populations as shields, then locating their equipment and bases of operations in civilian areas. We recognize Israel's long-standing commitment to minimizing civilian loss. We demand the Governments of Iran and Syria to direct Hamas and Hezbollah to immediately and unconditionally release the Israeli soldiers which they hold captive. And we condemn the Governments of Iran and Syria for their continued support of Hezbollah and Hamas in these armed attacks against Israel.…”