Russ Feingold: “while we are still awaiting final certification of the election results, it is apparent that the Islamic Resistance…”

“while we are still awaiting final certification of the election results, it is apparent that the Islamic Resistance Movement, or Hamas, has obtained a significant number of seats in the new Palestinian legislative council. Despite its electoral success, Hamas remains a terrorist organization that has refused to renounce its fundamental commitment to the destruction of Israel and to the use of violence to achieve its goals. Electoral results do not change the fact that a lasting, viable peace can only be obtained through a two-state solution. Hamas must use its electoral success as an opportunity to renounce its violent platform and to join in a coalition dedicated to achieving peace in the region. Renouncing terrorism and violence and accepting the right of Israel to exist are essential steps toward fulfilling the desire of the Palestinian people for a peaceful representative democracy. ____________________”