Smoke contrails from multiple rockets fired into Israel from Palestinian territory on July 17, 2014. Note: The rockets were fired from densely packed residential area.
On July 17, 2014 Rep. Vicky Hartzler from Missouri asked for and was granted permission to address the United States House of Representatives for one minute regarding the rocket attacks against Israel:
“Mr. Speaker, I rise today to highlight the real and present danger that Israel finds itself in today. Quite simply, Israel is under siege.
Hamas has fired over 1,000 rockets in the last few weeks into the country. Millions of Israelis are at risk. Hamas is a designated terrorist organization that calls for the destruction of Israel.
The aggression of Hamas leaves Israel with no choice but to defend its citizens, and we must show that we stand with Israel against unprovoked rocket attacks. Hamas must immediately end the unprovoked attacks and agree to a ceasefire.
In addition, Israel finds itself under siege by the persistent threat of a nuclear Iran. Stringent economic sanctions remain our only peaceful option by which to persuade Iran to suspend its quest for nuclear weapons. However, with the negotiations deadline approaching this Sunday, we must present a credible military threat and strengthen sanctions should Iran not respond to peacefully ending their pursuit.
The last window of opportunity we have to keep Iran from achieving a nuclear weapons capability is soon closing. Preventing Iran from achieving nuclear weapons capabilities is essential. We must stand with Israel”, said Hartzler.
Source: Congressional Record http://thomas.loc.gov/
Rep. Hartzler currently sits on the powerful House Armed Services Committee