Dear HW:
Thank you for contacting me about Israeli forces boarding the six vessel flotilla headed for Gaza. I appreciate hearing from you.
On May 31, 2010, Israeli Defense Forces (IDF) boarded six ships headed for Gaza with the intent to deliver humanitarian aid. Although five out of six vessels were boarded by the IDF without complications, one vessel (the Mavi Marmara) engaged in a conflict with IDF forces upon occupation. The Mavi Marmara carried 10,000 tons of aid for the residents of Gaza and approximately 600 pro-Palestinian activists. The struggle resulted in several civilian casualties and the injury of some members of the IDF.
This tragic incident reinforces the need for a permanent solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The Palestinian people deserve a safe and sovereign homeland and a voice in deciding their own destiny. However, these goals cannot be achieved at the expense of Israel's sovereignty or the safety of its citizens. The establishment of a Palestinian state must come through peaceful negotiations, not violence. Hamas must reject terrorism and stop launching rockets into Israel and Israel should take steps to address the issue of illegal settlements and work to improve the everyday lives of Palestinians.
The United States, as part of its broader goal of promoting the peaceful resolution of Middle East hostilities, must continue to encourage Palestinian efforts to construct a successful state and become a responsible partner in peace negotiations. The divided Palestinian political leadership, split between Fatah and Hamas, complicates efforts to resolve the conflict.
President Obama has repeatedly stated that resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will be a top priority for his Administration. I am pleased that the peace process is a focus of our nation's diplomatic efforts and I continue to hope that, despite their violent and bitter history, the two parties can reach a mutual agreement that will bring peace and stability to the region. In the long run, there is no alternative. Israelis and Palestinians are neighbors and must find a way to live together.
Thank you again for your message. Please feel free to keep in touch.
Sincerely,
Richard J. Durbin
United States Senator
RJD/ab
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