VIDEO: Schneider Speech in Support of Israel’s Right to Defend Herself as Hamas Rockets Target Civilians

WASHINGTON – Today, Congressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) gave the following speech from the House floor. Video can be found here.

"Tonight, because of Hamas terror rockets, millions of people in Israel, Gaza and the West Bank —including frail seniors and young children—are huddled in fear, worried about their loved ones and uncertain about what tomorrow will bring.

"Hamas and other terrorist groups are relentlessly attacking Israel, launching more than 1500 rockets just since Monday targeting Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, Be'er Sheba and every community in between. Israel is rightfully responding to these attacks, protecting its citizens, and defending its borders.

"Civilians are dying – Arabs and Jews.

"My heart breaks for all the innocents killed and injured. It's true more have died in Gaza. But Israel goes out of its way to minimize civilian casualties. Hamas, conversely, goes out of its way to target civilians in Israel…while launching its rockets from civilian areas in Gaza.

"Israel has overwhelming resources to defend herself, yet shows restraint. Hamas has rockets intended only for death and terror. Thankfully, with Iron Dome, Israel has the technology to protect the lives of its citizens, which in turn protects Palestinian lives as well.

"The U.S. stands with Israel and must do all we can to end Hamas's terror attacks and swiftly restore calm to the region."