U.S. House urges halt to PA aid
Congress passes nonbinding resolution urging that direct U.S. aid to Palestinians be stopped as long as Hamas, expected to form new Palestinian government, calls for Israel's destruction
The nonbinding resolution expressing the sense of Congress was approved 418-1. The Senate passed the measure earlier this month.
The Bush administration is evaluating its aid program to the Palestinians following Hamas' stunning victory in Palestinian elections over the Fatah movement.
"Until Hamas changes course, dismantles its terrorist organization, and agrees to work toward a peaceful settlement with Israel, no taxpayer money should be provided to support the Palestinian government," said House Majority Leader John Boehner, an Ohio Republican.
'Strong message to Palestinians'
House International Relations Committee Chairman Henry Hyde, an Illinois Republican, said the resolution "sends a strong message" to the Palestinians, without trying to force the Bush administration into a policy before the new Palestinian government is formed.
A number of House members are pushing binding legislation to halt U.S. aid and withhold U.S. funds to the United Nations equal to the amount the world body provides the Palestinians.
For 2006, the United States has budgeted USD 150 million in assistance to the Palestinians, and a further USD 84 million to the U.N. fund.
