Rep. Peter King’s recent statement on the Flotilla Incident:

“I strongly stand with Israel in the flotilla crisis.

“It is regretful but not surprising that world opinion once again blames Israel for the flotilla incident that occurred over the weekend.  Common sense tells us this was no humanitarian mission to Gaza.  Humanitarians and peace activists do not arm themselves with knives, clubs, and other weapons.  This was, without a doubt, a premeditated act with the intention of provoking the Israeli military into a confrontation (which it did) in the hopes of ending the naval blockade of Gaza.  And even though Israel took every reasonable and legal step that was appropriate to prevent the ship from reaching Gaza, even offering to off-load the cargo and transfer it after being inspected for military contraband, it was rebuffed.

“Israel must have the right to defend itself.  The embargo is in place to prevent rockets, munitions, and other materials from getting into the hands of Hamas, a terrorist organization that calls for the destruction of Israel and just this week launched rockets at Israeli cities.  Israel seeks only peace and security with its neighbors but unfortunately Hamas and its supporters do not have the same goals.”

(YWN Desk – NYC)