FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 20, 2006

CONTACT: Lara Friedman
(202) 728-1893

Washington, D.C.-Americans for Peace Now (APN) today expressed regret over the very limited content of resolutions passed in both the House and Senate regarding Hamas and Hezbollah. APN is a Jewish, Zionist organization dedicated to enhancing Israel's security through peace and to supporting the Israeli Peace Now movement.

"Congressional support for Israel and condemnation of terrorism are important and have been articulated many times in the past. So too has support for Israel's legitimate and justified right to defend its citizens and sovereign territory. All of these messages are important and welcome," said APN President and Executive Director Debra DeLee.

"At the same time," she added, "messages of solidarity are insufficient. What Israel really needs right now is determined American leadership to turn this dangerous crisis into an opportunity to achieve real security and stability on its borders. Skillful U.S. engagement can strengthen Lebanon's new government so that it can take control of all its territory, re-launch Israeli-Palestinian contacts, and, in the process, improve Israel's security and ensure that there is no return to the perilous status quo ante. It is disappointing that Congress did not include any call for the Bush Administration to undertake such an effort."