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ST06-07-020 |
July 17, 2006 |
Contact: Press
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212-669-3747 |
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THOMPSON: ISRAEL HAS RIGHT TO DEFEND ITSELF |
New York City Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. speaks at a rally in support of Israel sponsored by the Conference of Presidents of Major American Jewish Organizations and the Jewish Community Relations Council of New York on Monday, July 17, 2006.
Comptroller William C. Thompson, Jr. today released the following statement regarding Israel’s right to defend itself:
“For many years now, Israel has been working with diligence and good faith to bring about a peaceful accommodation with its neighbors in the Middle East. Time and again, Israel has come to the table, making serious and significant concessions.
“In recent days that work and those commitments have been jeopardized by repeated acts of aggression by the Hamas and Hezbollah militias, from the unprovoked kidnapping of Israeli soldiers to missile attacks on Haifa and neighboring towns. Today we condemn those actions and support Israel’s right to defend itself.
“At a time when some leaders in the Middle East have replaced dialogue with demagoguery, advocating hate instead of peace, we must remain firm in our support of Israel. Indeed, as some challenge the very right of Israel to exist, we must assert clearly and forcefully our demand that she be secure in her borders.
“Today we call for the safe and speedy return of the three soldiers abducted by Hamas and Hezbollah. And we ask as well that the United Nations enforce Resolution 1559, which requires the Lebanese Army to enforce the border between Lebanon and Israel and to dismantle the military wing of Hezbollah.
“In the meantime, Palestinian president Mahmoud Abbas must work with Israeli prime minister Olmert to reduce tensions in Gaza. In gathering today, we show our unswerving commitment to peace and security throughout the region and our unconditional support for Israel in this time of crisis.”
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