January 8, 2009

Washington D.C. — Nevada Senator Harry Reid spoke on the resolution he introduced, and which passed Thursday, recognizing the right of Israel to defend itself against attacks from Gaza.

Reid made the following statement reaffirming the United States' strong support for Israel in its battle with Hamas and supporting the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

"When we pass this resolution, the United States Senate will strengthen our historic bond with the State of Israel by reaffirming Israel's inalienable right to defend against attacks from Gaza, as well as our support for the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.

"I spoke with Prime Minister Olmert last week and again expressed my understanding of and appreciation for the terrible situation that Israel has faced.  Hamas has been firing rockets and mortars into Israel, killing and maiming innocent Israeli civilians, for more than eight years.

"I ask my colleagues to imagine if this were happening here in the United States and rocket fire was coming from Vancouver, Canada, into Seattle. Would the United States react?  Of course we would.  We would have to react to protect our people, and it would be not only our right, but our obligation to do so.  That is what the Israelis have done. I encourage all of my colleagues to support this critical expression of support for our steadfast ally, the State of Israel."

The resolution, supported by Democrats and Republicans, states that the United States Senate stands with Israel at this critical moment and recognizes Israel's right to self-defense. The resolution calls on Hamas to end the rocket and mortar attacks against Israel. This resolution supports what Reid has called "an unwavering commitment to Israel that is not a Democratic or Republican value, but an American value."

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