~May 5, 2005~

May 5, 2005

The Honorable Bill Frist

509 Hart Senate Office Building

United States Senate

Dear Senator Frist,

I want you to know how much Churches for Middle East Peace appreciates your comments on Israeli-Palestinian issues as reported by the Associated Press and your website’s “notes from the road.” We commend your recognition of the importance of building Congressional support for the President and the Road Map peace plan and thank you for taking time to travel to the region and meet with both Israelis and Palestinians.   

We agree with you that Israel’s pullout from the Gaza Strip and part of the West Bank must allow for the creation of a Palestinian state, and that the U.S. must ensure that Israel’s withdrawal does not prejudice the outcome of a two-state solution to the conflict.  Your clear statement about the necessary responsibility of the United States is heartening, especially because of your position as Senate Majority Leader. We are impressed with your awareness of the components necessary for a two-state solution and encourage your leadership in the Senate. It is regrettable that Congressional appropriators, in restricting provision of aid to the Palestinians in the supplemental, did not understand the importance of empowering President Abbas, and supporting President Bush.

The staff and Board members of Churches for Middle East Peace are currently meeting with the legislative aides of Senators to discuss these same points and to provide them with affirmative materials. The newly released Rand Corporation report “Building a Palestinian State” is an important asset. I would like to introduce myself and Churches for Middle East Peace to your policy advisor for 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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