Larsen speaks to students about Israel

James Ramsay / The Daily
Eric Hasson (left), President of Huskies for Israel, speaks with Ron Kamara (right) before U.S. Congressman Rick Larsen (center) speaks to students about issues of U.S. – Israel relations yesterday.

by Kyle Arnold
02/19/2003


At a yesterday’s Huskies for Israel meeting, U.S. Congressman Rick Larsen spoke of his support for a free Israeli state and for Israel’s role in the Middle East peace process.

Larsen arrived at Sea-Tac yesterday at about 4:30 p.m. due to the snowstorm affecting Washington, D.C. He has served in the U.S. House of Representatives for two years and serves on the Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, Armed Services Committee and Agricultural Committee.

The democratic representative for Washington’s 2nd District spoke to about 40 attendees at last night’s meeting in Mary Gates Hall. In attendance were members of Young Democrats, College Republicans and organizers of the meeting.

Larsen said Israel has duties in maintaining peace in the Middle East and being a leader in the region.

“However, [the United States] needs to demonstrate to Israel how their actions are perceived internationally,” he added.

He also supported Israel’s stance on terrorism and defense of its country.

“I think the administration, with support of Congress, has supported Israel’s right to defend itself,” said Larsen. “If I were the leadership of Israel, I too would be concerned with negotiating with people who have tried to destroy my country.”

Larsen spoke of the possible ramifications of a war in the Middle East on the ongoing peace process in Israel.

“I think there are some that think [a war] will improve relations in the Middle East, through a more constructive process like working with the United Nations,” said Larsen. “But it could also have a more destabilizing effect, possibly leading to more terrorism.”

According to event organizer Ron Kamara, students were privileged to have an important lawmaker here to discuss issues on Israel and hear student feedback.

“Our job is to educate all of the students on campus to the issues that affect Israel,” added Eric Hasson, president of Huskies for Israel.