Visiting US Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi spoke of the dangers that have been facing Israel for the past six decades, stating today, Israel still finds herself in “unsafe neighborhood”.

The speaker is leading a bipartisan congressional delegation which is taking part in 60th anniversary celebrations. Ms. Pelosi on Sunday spoke of the current threats from Hamas, Hizbullah and Iran. When asked about a possible military response, she expressed her hope that such a reality will not be necessary but added at present, “nothing is taken off the table”.

“You are the flag of not just Israel, but for the world,” she stated, adding “We owe you a debt of gratitude,” in reference to Israel’s battle against weapons of mass destruction that threaten the region and the world.

The speaker echoed remarks made last week by President George W. Bush, reaffirming Israel and America share a common vision and goals.

Defense Minister Ehud Barak brought the realities of ongoing rocket attacks into southern Israel home for the visiting lawmakers, asking them to imagine rocket attacks from Mexico into California, striking the San Diego area.

(Yechiel Spira – YWN Israel)