Israel

Press Release

I have heard from many Kansans concerned about the situation in Israel after the recent flotilla incident near the Israeli port of Ashdod. I also remain concerned about the Middle East and Congress is keeping a close eye on the situation.

Since 2006, Hamas has effectively controlled the Gaza Strip. In 2008, hostilities escalated when Hamas militants fired rockets and grenades into Israel. Subsequently, Israel tightened its blockade on certain goods permitted into the Gaza Strip. While Israel has made humanitarian aid and supplies available to Palestinians, following inspection in Ashdod, the danger of smuggled arms and munitions remains a serious issue. In protest to the blockade, the Gaza Free Movement and the Foundation for Human Rights and Freedom and Humanitarian Relief (IHH), a radical Islamic group based in Turkey with ties to Hamas, organized to violate Israel's maritime regulations.

In response to the incident, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Israel's intention to lead an investigation. I am confident this will be a thorough and definitive investigation. As a former Chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee and a Marine, I believe that peace between Israel and the Palestinians is indispensable to the stability of the region and to the security of the United States. Hamas' antagonistic behavior is the source of many breakdowns in the peace process and its continued commitment to the destruction of Israel is the source of endless strife for civilians on both sides. It is clear that a permanent cease-fire must be reached that allows Israelis to live without fear, and that allows Palestinians to prosper. This can not be achieved by repeatedly denying that Israel has a right to self defense.

Ultimately, I believe it is the international community's responsibility to find a productive, realistic answer to the violence that has plagued both Israelis and the Palestinians for far too many years. I remain a strong supporter of Israel as a United States ally.

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