Congressman Pete Stark

Statement of Congressman Pete Stark
In Support of Diplomacy in the Middle East

Mr. Speaker, I reluctantly rise in opposition to this one-sided resolution that condemns recent attacks against the State of Israel while failing to deplore Israeli violence against the people of Lebanon. Like the authors and supporters of this resolution, I support Israel’s right to exist and denounce the tragic kidnapping of Israeli soldiers. I also appreciate the desire to marginalize Hezbollah. But Israel’s disproportionate military response, which is decimating Lebanon’s infrastructure and economy, and preventing the transport of necessary medicines into the country, is counterproductive.

As we are all painfully aware, the Middle East is a fragile place. Unfortunately, America’s unconditional support for Israel is now tipping the balance in Israel’s favor, facilitating a cycle of violence that undermines hopes for long-term peace. The latest back-and-forth threatens a larger, longer, and more deadly war, and underscores the failure of this administration to bring stability to the region.

Lebanon has a democratically elected government that is by no means safely ensconced. I fear that in an attempt to weaken Hezbollah, Israel will instead undermine a Lebanese government that is more autonomous and sovereign than at anytime in the past two decades. Killing Lebanese soldiers, for example, will not help the Lebanese government limit Hezbollah’s influence. President Bush and I rarely agree, but even he this week cautioned Israel to be “mindful” of allowing Lebanon’s government to “succeed and survive” after the conflict.

I do not agree with the President’s refusal, however, to join the international community in calling for a prompt cease-fire. Nor do I appreciate this resolution’s tacit approval for a lack of American diplomacy. Rather than back any and all actions Israel takes, the United States should act as an honest broker and pressure both Israel and Lebanon to show restraint. Diplomacy, not more violence, is the path to peace in the Middle East.

Additionally, I strongly encourage the United States to acknowledge the plight of Americans living in Lebanon. Yesterday morning, the Washington Post ran a letter to the editor by a constituent of mine, noting the administration’s Katrina-like response to evacuation requests. The constituent’s family would like to depart Lebanon, but has been unable to secure transport out of the country.

Finally, I am concerned that particular language in this resolution that all but encourages Israel to take action against Iran’s nuclear facilities. Section Eight in particular sanctions “Israel’s right to take appropriate action including to conduct operations in the territory of nations which pose a threat to it.” As with the current violence, I would urge Israel – and the United States – to pursue a diplomatic solution in Iran.

I cannot vote for a resolution that condemns one tragedy while supporting another. I urge my colleagues to embrace the difficult and challenging path to peace rather than the reflexively simple march to war.