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The international news over the past few weeks has centered on the current conflict in Israel and Lebanon. Like you, I have watched the terrible events unfold as people are trying to flee the country, as innocent people are killed and as a country is torn apart. This awful situation was set in motion by state supported terrorist groups determined to destroy Israel.
Last week the House passed a resolution (Res. 921) condemning the recent attacks against the State of Israel. I voted for this resolution because I believe that Israel has the right to defend itself. The kidnapping and military assaults carried out by Hezbollah and Hamas are tantamount to acts of war. Israel cannot sit back and watch the terrorists groups directed from Syria and Iran harm its people. Unfortunately, many innocent Lebanese and Palestinians are caught in the middle of this struggle.
As you know Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice is currently in the Middle East meeting with leaders in Lebanon, Israel and various Arab countries to hopefully come to a peaceful agreement. I deeply regret that this conflict has resulted in the loss of innocent civilian life on both sides. The solution ultimately requires the Lebanese and Palestinian governments to become strong enough to take control of their borders and disarm terrorist organizations such as Hezbollah and Hamas.
I have received multiple calls to my office by family members who are trying to locate and help their family in Lebanon The United States is using all available means to ensure safe and orderly passage of American citizens out of Lebanon to Cyprus and Turkey, including U.S. military ships, chartered commercial ships, and U.S. military helicopters. From Cyprus and Turkey, the U.S. Government is transporting American citizens to the United States via commercial charter and military aircraft. As of July 24, approximately 12,600 American Citizens have been transported out of Lebanon by the United States since Sunday, July 16. About 2,100 American citizens departed Beirut yesterday, and about 1,000 have departed today. If you are having any problems getting your family out of Lebanon, please call my office or the Department of State by calling: 202-501-4444 (outside U.S.) and 1-888-407-4747 (inside U.S.).
This conflict is a reminder to us that there are many terrorist groups around the world who will use any means available and necessary to disrupt peaceful democracies. Winning the War on Terror will not be easy--it will be a long-term struggle that could last for generations--but it is important to the security of our country and other peaceful countries around the globe. |
