Wexler: Hamas Victory A Setback for Middle East Peace

U.S. Taxpayer Dollars Must Not End Up in the Hands of Terrorists

(Washington, D.C.) Congressman Robert Wexler (D-FL) issued the following statement in response to the results of the Palestinian Parliamentary elections, where the Islamist militant group Hamas is the winner. Hamas has been classified as a terrorist organization by the United States as well as the European Union. It has masterminded and carried-out over 60 deadly terror attacks on Israel since 2000; it opposed the peace process, and it continues to support the destruction of Israel.

In November, Wexler introduced H.Res.575, asserting that terrorist organizations should not be permitted to participate in the Palestinian elections. H.Res. 575, which passed the full House on December 16, 2005, also states that the inclusion of Hamas in the Palestinian Parliamentary elections would "inevitably raise serious questions for the United States about the commitment of the Palestinian Authority (PA) and its leadership to making peace with Israel and will potentially undermine the ability of the United States to have a constructive relationship with, or provide further assistance to, the Palestinian Authority."

"The reality that Hamas is going to play a significant role in the Palestinian Authority is deeply troubling and a significant setback for peace in the region. Hamas' victory sends a disturbing message that an internationally recognized terrorist organization can gain political influence without making a commitment to disarm or recognize Israel's right to exist in peace. The Hamas charter calls for the destruction of Israel, and the Bush Administration must assert unequivocally that the United States will not deal with Hamas unless it renounces violence, fully disarms its militia and recognizes Israel. It is also imperative that the Bush Administration reaffirm its support for Israel's right to self defense and ability to take tough unilateral measures to ensure its security in light of the shift in Palestinian leadership.

"There is a political and economic price to be paid for electing an unrepentant terrorist organization, such as Hamas and Congress must now reevaluate its relationship with the Palestinian Authority. U.S. taxpayer dollars must not end up in the hands of terrorists." Wexler said.

Congressman Wexler is a senior member of the House International Relations Committee and is a member of the House Judiciary Committee.