Lowey and Barak Discuss Shared Peace and Security Interests

WASHINGTON – Congresswoman Nita Lowey, Chairwoman of the State and Foreign Operations Appropriations Subcommittee, yesterday met with Israeli Defense Minister Ehud Barak to discuss shared security interests and prospects for achieving a meaningful peace in the Middle East.

“Israel is a vital ally in the Middle East, and the United States must continue to do all it can to promote peace and security in the region,” said Lowey. “If the coming months are to result in meaningful advances in the peace process, there is much to be done to lay the groundwork for success.

“Since Hamas took over Gaza, I have been calling on the Administration to develop a comprehensive strategy for supporting Abu Mazen, helping to bring economic recovery and security to the West Bank, and bringing all the partners in the region to the table in order to show a visible difference between Fatah and Hamas and to move the peace process forward. As Secretary Rice concludes her 7th visit to the region this year, I encourage her to continue to press to bring all partners to the table and to gain commitments from our Arab partners to support and participate in this peace process.”

Lowey expressed deep concern about the lack of progress in creating jobs, housing, economic opportunity and security in the West Bank. These actions are essential to show the Palestinian people that there is a clear distinction between Hamas and Fatah. Left unchecked, insecurity and lack of opportunity and basic services will make lasting peace much more difficult.

Lowey also expressed concern about weapons and cash smuggling operations into Gaza and solicited Minister Barak's opinions on efforts to detect tunnels and prevent smuggled materials from fueling Hamas in Gaza

Lowey affirmed that there is strong bipartisan support in Congress for maintaining Israel's qualitative military edge in the region and ensuring that Israel has the tools needed to protect herself.

“It is both a moral responsibility and in the security interests of the United States for Israel and her citizens to be safe from threats that she continues to face from within and outside her borders,” said Lowey.