Mr. Speaker, only two years ago Israeli Prime Minister Yitzhak Rabin proclaimed to the world: "Enough of blood and tears. Enough".
Today citizens of the world remember those courageous words as they mourn the tragic loss of this great peacemaker. It is indeed ironic that a man of peace should be taken from the world so violently.
Today as we mourn his death we also celebrate his life. We shall continue to remember him for the legacy he has left behind: peace in the Middle East which will be treasured by every child who comes of age in a better world.
Mr. Rabin knew the soul of his people and his people came to him for leadership in war and in peace.
As we grieve with his family and his nation, let us resolve that his death shall not still the life of peace.