Passing with an overwhelming majority of 407-9, the resolution recognizes "new realities on the ground, including already existing major Israeli population centers" and rejects any Arab "right of return" to Israel. While not referring to an Israeli withdrawal by name, the resolution does reference a "Palestinian state" more than once. The wording was negotiated and agreed upon by House Majority Leader Tom DeLay (R-Texas) and House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-Md.), primary cosponsors of the resolution.



Commenting on the purpose of the resolution, Rep. DeLay said, "The people of Israel are at war with terror, and it is our responsibility to help them win it." The congressman added, "Peace cannot be negotiated with unpeaceful men. Peace must be won. We must stand with Israel as they work everyday toward its winning."



A Senate vote on a similar resolution is expected later this week.



In official reaction to the Congressional vote, Israeli Ambassador to the US Daniel Ayalon stated: "By strongly endorsing the principles set forth in President Bush's April 14 letter, in response to Prime Minister Sharon's proposed disengagement plan, the US Congress took an important step in promoting peace and stability in our region."



Senior Sharon aide Dov Weisglass called the vote a watershed, one that he classified as "one of the most important in US-Israel relations."