Having long been the victims of discrimination and persecution, and fresh from the unimaginable horror of the Holocaust, the Jewish people of the world were successful in establishing an independent state in May of 1948. Thanks to their heroic efforts, Israel was born as a pluralistic democracy that promotes the values of liberty for all of its citizens. Fifty-seven years later, Israel continues to shine as a beacon of hope in a region too often blighted by oppressive and dictatorial regimes.

Despite Israel's desire for a peaceable existence, its citizens have been the target of violence since the state's inception. These attacks have come from neighboring states, resulting in multiple wars, and from the coordinated efforts of terrorists. Innocent Israeli's have been targeted while going about their daily lives, often during activities as routine as boarding a bus or sitting in an outdoor café.

Yet, despite the recurring waves of terror, the Israeli people have managed not just to maintain their independence, but also to thrive as a society. Israelis find themselves at the leading edge of innovation in the scientific and academic fields. The industrious Israeli people transformed an arid landscape into a model green space dotted with cities rich in diversity and culture. This resilience and vibrancy is a credit to Israel's open system of government, a system that respects and promotes civil rights, free expression, and genuine democratic elections.

I am hopeful that a lasting peace in this troubled region can be reached. However, this cannot come at the expense of Israel's security. I will continue to demand that the Palestinian Authority renounce, immediately and completely, all forms of terrorism.

On this day of independence, Yom Ha'Atzmaut, the United States stands proudly with Israel and remembers the sacrifices made by her founders. In addition, we honor the soldiers and ordinary citizens who have died in defense of freedom. The U.S. takes great pride in our alliance with Israel, and we find great strength in our moral and philosophical ties, as well as our economic and military partnerships. We will continue to act jointly with Israel to preserve her status as a secure Jewish state and a model of democracy for the whole of the Middle East.

I urge my colleagues to support this concurrent resolution.