Washington, DC – Congressman Todd Akin (R-MO) today voted for H. Res. 34, expressing support for the State of Israel in its defensive activity against terrorist attacks launched from the Gaza strip.

The following is a statement by Congressman Todd Akin:

"Today I joined my colleagues in the House in re-affirming our support for Israel as a stalwart ally.

"Israel has suffered repeated attacks from terrorists and insurgents based in Gaza and directed by Hamas leadership. Weapons smuggled through Gaza have repeatedly been used to target Israeli civilians in cowardly suicide bombings. Israel’s actions this week are the clear duty and only reasonable response of a sovereign nation to such indefensible attacks against its citizens.

"Since its inception, Israel has been targeted for elimination by the most violent of its neighbors. It has met that threat with the measured and judicious use of defensive force. I commend our Israeli allies for seeking to minimize civilian casualties while protecting its borders and its people."