~May 3, 2005~

May 3, 2005

The Honorable Lincoln Chafee

141A Russell Senate Office Building

United States Senate

Dear Senator Chafee,

I want you to know how much Churches for Middle East Peace appreciates the thoughtful leadership you have provided as chair of the Near Eastern and South Asian Affairs Subcommittee of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.  During the confirmation hearing of Secretary of State-designate Condoleezza Rice, your questions about the components of viability for a Palestinian state and the dilemma faced by the Palestinians in curbing violence were significant yet respectful.  Having worked in support of Israeli-Palestinian peace for over 20 years, I know well the many sensitivities and complexities one faces in dealing with this issue, and I share with you a deep concern about how the conflict affects the entire region.

The current makeup of the Senate – with you, Senator Lugar and other serious and thoughtful colleagues in foreign policy roles – gives me hope for Congressional support of Israeli-Palestinian peacemaking. Please call CMEP if we might be helpful to you – such as providing background material, factual information or contacts – in your work as subcommittee chair.

Sincerely,

Corinne Whitlatch

Executive Director

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