Schakowsky’s Statement on Gaza Flotilla Incident

WASHINGTON, DC (June 7, 2010) — Rep. Jan Schakowsky (D-IL) released the following statement today:

"I deeply regret the loss of life that occurred aboard one of the ships in the Gaza-bound flotilla last week. This particular incident requires a thorough and transparent investigation and I look forward to learning all the facts. The greater issue at hand is how we guarantee Israel's security by stopping rocket attacks and preventing arms and weapons materials from reaching Hamas in Gaza while simultaneously allowing passage of humanitarian aid for those living in Gaza.

"The Jewish State of Israel has always been, and absolutely remains, the United States' strongest ally in the Middle East. Provocations by those who want to incite unrest and violence in order to sabotage the Middle East peace process must be immediately defused.

"What has transpired in the wake of the flotilla incident is another painful reminder of why we must work to guarantee security and economic opportunity for both Israelis and Palestinians. We must not let this tragic unfolding of events derail progress toward a two-state solution and lasting peace in the region....