US Congress Passes Resolution Supporting Israel Right To Defend
WASHINGTON (AFP)--The U.S. House of Representatives on Friday joined the Senate in offering staunch support to Israel as the conflict rages on in Gaza, calling on Hamas to end rocket attacks.
"Today, we reaffirm that Israel, like any nation, has a right to self-defense when under attack," said House speaker Nancy Pelosi. "The rocket and mortar attacks from Gaza, which were increasing in frequency and range, constituted an unacceptable security threat to which Israel had a responsibility to respond."
Pelosi backed the Bush administration position that the cease-fire should address the root causes of the conflict to forge a peace that is "durable and sustainable."
The resolution calls on Hamas to end rocket and mortar attacks against Israel, recognize Israel's right to exist, renounce violence and verifiably dismantle its terrorist infrastructure.
It says civilian lives must intended to the "maximum extent possible" and expresses condolences to innocent Palestinian and Israeli victims and their families.
The resolution, passed unanimously, also reiterates that "humanitarian needs in Gaza should be addressed promptly and responsibly."
On Thursday, the Senate passed a similar measure, saying Israel had an " inalienable right" to defend itself from attacks by Hamas.
http://www.nasdaq.com/aspxcontent/NewsStory.aspx?cpath=20090109/ACQDJON200901091720DOWJONESDJONLINE000843.htm&SourceCode=&mypage=newsheadlines&title=US%20Congress%20Passes%20Resolution%20Supporting%20Israel%20Right%20To%20Defend