|
Washington, DC -- Following a joint session of Congress today featuring a speech from Jordan's King Abdullah II, U.S. Rep. Ron Klein (FL-22) expressed his appreciation toward King Abdullah’s overall message of regional peace. However, Klein was disappointed that King Abdullah’s speech did not realize the realities on the ground between the Palestinian Authority’s position toward Israel, and failed to address the threat of Iran and its hatred toward the United States and Israel.
“I appreciate King Abdullah’s effort to address the joint Congress and his overall message of regional peace, however, I was disappointed his speech did not contain more specifics concerning the Palestinian Authority’s position toward Israel. This was a missed opportunity,” said Klein.
Responding to the King of Jordan’s statement that ‘the denial of justice and peace in Palestine’ is the ‘source of resentment and frustration,’ Klein said, “The Palestinian leadership has disappointed its people time and time again by refusing to reform itself and refusing fair offers for peace. The Palestinians’ grievances are legitimate—but should not be solely directed toward Israel. Rather, their own leadership is to blame. It is up to the Palestinians to accept Israel as their neighbor before negotiations can begin. Until Hamas is disarmed and recognizes Israel as a Jewish state with secure and recognized borders, Israel has no partner for peace.”
Klein also expressed frustration that King Abdullah did not mention the crucial and urgent issue of Iran.
“Dealing with the Iranian threat is central to the stability of the region and the world,” said Klein. “The menacing Iranian president, Mahmood Ahmadinejad, funds terrorist operations all over the globe, defies international will by continuing his nuclear program, and injects his hatred for America and for Israel wherever he goes. I wish I could have heard a speech from the Jordanian King that calls for moderate Arab countries, such as Jordan, to work together to counter the Iranian threat and ensure peace and stability.” | 
