Statement of U.S. Senator Dianne Feinstein
on Today’s Developments in the Middle East
Thursday, October 12, 2000

The Middle East Crisis

“The Middle East is now in crisis. The negotiations in the peace process have effectively ceased, the borders have been closed, the chasm between the two sides is widening and the violence is increasing. I retain the hope that the Arab nations surrounding Israel – led by Egypt -- will rally together to encourage a return to the peace table by the Palestinians. Absent this, the situation will continue in crisis.”

The Bombing of the U.S.S. Cole

“With respect to the U.S.S. Cole, I have been watching the situation as closely as I can and to date, all evidence points to a terrorist attack. This is one more act of infamy that simply cannot be tolerated. I would urge a very aggressive seeking out of the perpetrators and a commensurate response.”