~May 12, 2005~

May 12, 2005

The Honorable Thomas Carper

United States Senate

Washington, DC

Dear Senator Carper,

Thank you for speaking, on May 10, in support of the President’s request for financial aid to the Palestinians. We appreciate your making special mention of the impact that aid to the Palestinians can have on decreasing unemployment and therefore bolstering hope among Palestinians for a peaceful and prosperous future.  Indeed, as you say, this aid package is in our interest as well as that of Israelis and Palestinians.  It is for this reason that we were dismayed by the many restrictions placed on the aid, which may delay its delivery and the impact it can have on supporting President Abbas in his efforts to promote reform and combat terrorism.  I am especially impressed with your speaking about the potential that Israel-Palestinian peacemaking has to diminish the threat of terrorism, here and abroad.

As you point out, this present moment does offer a real opportunity for progress on Israeli-Palestinian peace through a negotiated two-state solution.  We agree that the United States must be seen as an honest broker in helping both sides come to a fair and permanent resolution.  In our meetings with Congressional offices we are appealing for bipartisan Congressional support for President Bush and Secretary Rice as they engage with the parties and international community to end this tragic conflict that is a threat to us all. I would like to introduce myself and Churches for Middle East Peace to your legislative aide on these issues and will call your office soon to arrange an appointment. 

Having worked in support of Israeli-Palestinian peace for over 20 years, I know well the sensitivities and complexities one faces in dealing with this issue, and I share with you a deep concern about how this conflict affects the entire region.

Sincerely,

Corinne Whitlatch

Executive Director

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