WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Representative Adam Schiff (D-CA), co-founder of the Democratic Study Group of National Security and member of the House International Relations Committee, issued the following statement on the capture of former Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein:
"This is a great day for the Iraqi people and for Coalition Forces. The Iraqi people have lived in fear that Saddam Hussein would somehow come back and today, with the capture of this former tyrant and with the earlier death of his sons, we have made it clear that Iraq has a new future.
"Today marks a second beginning for Iraq - we are now on a new path. We have a great opportunity to take hold of this momentum and quickly move Iraq forward towards greater security and independence. The charge before us in the coming weeks is to take advantage of this tremendous victory by continuing to improve security in Iraq, working to get essential services such as water and power up and running, training and activating a new Iraqi army and helping the Iraqi people craft their own civil and political institutions. We must also redouble our efforts to bring the talent and resources of our allies, and the international community to bear, in working to help the Iraqi people on the road towards sovereignty and democracy.
"When I was in Iraq in August, I had the chance to meet with Major General Raymond Odierno and the 4th Infantry Division soldiers in Tikrit charged with finding Saddam Hussein. I commend the General and these amazingly talented soldiers for their miraculous achievement today and for effectively carrying out their mission with courage and distinction.
"Today marks an important step in this war, but as the President pointed out, it does not guarantee a cessation of violence. Our troops are still in harm’s way. We must do all that we can to support them and ensure that they have the tools and resources they need to finish the job and return safely home.
"The Iraqi people, our nation and the international community can now rest well knowing that Saddam Hussein is no longer a threat to Iraq or the world. We can celebrate together today and then join together tomorrow on a new, safer path towards democracy in Iraq."
Rep. Schiff represents California’s 29th Congressional District, including the communities of Alhambra, Altadena, Burbank, East Pasadena, East San Gabriel, Glendale, Monterey Park, Pasadena, San Gabriel, South Pasadena and Temple City.