Washington, Dec 14, 2005 -

Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support of today’s commonsense resolution condemning the participation of terrorist organizations in the Palestinian elections. It is disappointing that Congress even needs to make this statement, yet time and time again, history has proven it is necessary.

The Middle East peace process requires that the Palestinian Authority recognize the right of Israel to exist and that it reject the terrorism and violence that have plagued the region since the 1940s. It stands to reason that this requirement can only be met if the very organizations which threaten peace in the Middle East, such as Hamas and Islamic Jihad, are removed from the official political process.

As it is, these organizations currently operate with little interference or admonition from the Palestinian Authority. Were they to become a part of the governing authority, the integrity of the Palestinian government would be compromised. Clearly, the Authority cannot condemn the anti-Israel and anti-American bias of the same groups of which it is comprised.

Mr. Speaker, I encourage my colleagues to reaffirm their support for our strong ally, Israel, and to support this resolution. Thank you.