Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Chairman, I rise today in support of emergency security assistance to our democratic ally Israel. The $200 million in supplemental assistance to Israel contained in the FY 2002 Supplemental Emergency Appropriations bill provides vital emergency resources to a key U.S. ally and a frontline state in the war against terror.
Mr. Chairman, it became painfully evident after September 11 that Israel and the United States are engaged in a common struggle against terrorism. Neither country asked for this struggle; both have constantly chosen a path of peace when given the choice. Israelis must know that the U.S. stands with them in this difficult hour, as they have repeatedly stood with this country throughout the years.
The United States has never been more resolved to eliminate the threat of terrorism against innocent civilians and free society. The democratic State of Israel stands shoulder to shoulder with the United States in this effort. Terrorist attacks against innocent Israeli civilians are taking place on a constant basis. In the face of terror, Israel is attempting to rout out the forces that threaten the daily lives of its citizens. But Israel continues to suffer a systematic and deliberate campaign of terror aimed at inflicting as many casualties as possible.
Mr. Chairman, as the world's leading democracy, we have a responsibility to stand by a democratic friend and ally threatened by a wave of terrorist aggression. At this volatile stage of developments in the Middle East, Israel needs to know that it can count on U.S. security assistance.