Here’s a fun game, let’s play guess the speaker:

Mr. Speaker, this resolution is an important first step to cut off direct aid to the Palestinian Authority now that Hamas will be in power. However, it is only one component of the dramatic overhaul that needs to take place as we redefine our relationship with the new Palestinian government.

Responsible for attacks that have murdered hundreds and injured thousands, Hamas is first and foremost a terrorist organization. Its fund raising and training operations run through the same shadowy networks as Al-Qaeda and Hezbollah. Its philosophy and practice are grounded in the spread of extremist hatred, anti-Semitism and violence.

The United States must set a strong example and be firm in urging the international community to join us in cutting off all funding and diplomatic contacts with the Palestinian Authority once Hamas takes control.

The Palestinian election may have been conducted in a free and fair manner, but it does not make the Hamas victory any more legitimate. Until it disarms, renounces violence, and recognizes Israel’s right to exist, the group should continue to be dealt with as a rogue entity.

There is no room for ambiguity. Governments that wage the global war on terrorism should not be propping up a terrorist regime. International organizations that believe in the peace process should not be financing a Palestinian leadership bent on Israel’s destruction. Nations that disavow anti-Semitism should not be providing assistance that would give an even greater pulpit for Hamas to spew its hatred.

It is alarming that despite these realities President Putin and others have made overtures to Hamas leaders. There should be no distinction between terrorists in Chechnya who target Russian school children and those from the West Bank and Gaza who blow up Israeli pizza stores and public buses. Equivocation only emboldens their use of such heinous tactics.

If there is hope of pressuring Hamas to change, the world must unite behind a clear message: We will not support a terrorist-state, but stand ready to assist when and if a Palestinian government emerges that is ready, willing and able to embrace a peaceful future.

Can you do it, can you guess who it was? Henry Waxman. Yeah, I wouldn’t have guess that either.

Trackback URI | Comments RSS