Statement of U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek Regarding the Return of Israeli Soliders’ Bodies to Israel

 

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek (D-FL) released the following statement after the bodies of two Israeli soldiers, Ehud Golwasser and Eldad Regev, were returned to Israel today:  

“This morning Israel received the bodies of Ehud Goldwasser and Eldad Regev from Hezbollah after their unprovoked and violent abduction in 2006. I would first like to express my sorrow and send my condolences to the Goldwasser and Regev families as well as to the nation of Israel. The exchange of Lebanese prisoners including convicted murderer, Samir Kuntar, as well as remains of other Lebanese soldiers in order to receive the bodies of Goldwasser and Regev, serve as a constant reminder that Israel remains the a truly Democratic and moral beacon in an unsettling part of the world. 

“The captures of these two Israeli soldiers, which triggered the 2006 war between Israel and Lebanon, left the families in doubt, but hopeful of their condition for two years. While I continue to grieve for their loss, the families can now have closure for the sacrifices made by the two Israeli soldiers in attempting to keep peace and safety in Israel. These two young men did not die in vain. They should serve as an inspiration to their countrymen and to all people who value life and freedom.

“As we continue to work on the peace process, we must all continue to work for the release of Gilad Shalit who remains in captivity.  I join our community in South Florida demanding Gilad’s return home.”

U.S. Rep. Kendrick B. Meek represents the 17^th Congressional District of Florida which includes parts of Miami-Dade and Broward Counties. He serves as the lone Floridian sitting on the House Committee on Ways and Means, and also sits on the House Armed Services Committee.

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