McCaul on Gaza Conflict

Dist. 10 Congressman Michael McCaul (photo by John Anderson)

We recently rolled our eyes at Rick Perry's declaration of just where he stands on the Israel/Gaza conflict – seeing as he's governor of Texas, we were scratching our heads as to why should care about his foreign policy positions. (Have some national aspirations, Rick? Better make sure you can win that 2010 primary first.)

Michael McCaul's opinion, on the other hand, is worth considering, seeing as he can actually affect national policy, even if he is in the minority party (wow I love saying that). The Republican Austin congressman just released this statement in his weekly "McCaul Minute" newsletter:

America would not stand idle if a neighboring country fired missiles at our cities, so no one should expect Israel to do so. That is why today I co-sponsored and voted for House Resolution 34, which expresses vigorous support and unwavering commitment to the welfare, security, and survival of the State of Israel as a Jewish and democratic state with secure borders, and recognizes its right to act in self-defense to protect its citizens against Hamas’s unceasing aggression. The resolution further calls on Hamas to end the rocket and mortar attacks against Israel and recognize its right to exist.

I unequivocally support Israel's right to defend itself as long as Hamas or any other terrorist group threatens its existence. I am deeply saddened by the loss of life on both sides of this conflict and condemn Hamas for deliberately using its civilian population, including schools and hospitals, as human shields to protect its fighters, leaders and weapons. I join people around the world praying that a negotiated settlement will lead to a lasting peace in the region.