Washington  -

 "Today I joined my colleagues in recognizing Israel's right to self-defense and encouraging the resumption of the Israeli-Palestinian peace process," said Rep. Castle following today's vote on H.Res.34. "Hundreds of people have already been killed in the course of this two week conflict and I believe it is crucial that the international community, specifically the United Nations and moderate governments in the region, play a greater role in establishing a durable and sustainable ceasefire.

 "Since 2001, Hamas has launched thousands of rockets and mortars against Israel, while the people of Gaza have suffered from shortages of food, water, electricity, and adequate medical care.  Although negotiating and maintaining a peace agreement has proven to be extremely difficult, continuing to seek stability and security in the Middle East is an imperative goal."