"Democrats in the US Senate called on Iraqi Prime Minister Nuri al-Maliki to condemn Hezbollah's attacks against Israel and to recognize Israel's right to defend itself.mon dieu.
The lawmakers expressed dismay during a press conference over Maliki's recent criticism of "Israel aggression" in Lebanon and called for a "clarification" from the Iraqi leader before he appears Wednesday before a joint session of Congress.
The lawmakers suggested that some members of Congress may choose to boycott the event if an explanation is not forthcoming.
"No matter how politically expedient he thinks it may be, to stand with America, you have to stand against terrorism," said Senator Chuck Schumer.
"Before he speaks in front of the Congress and the American people, there's a very simple question we are asking the prime minister today: Which side is he on when it comes to the war on terror?" Schumer said.
In a letter dated July 24, Senate Democratic Leader Harry Reid, along with other party leaders, called on the Iraqi leader to clarify his views before speaking to a joint session of the US Congress.
"Your failure to condemn Hezbollah's aggression and recognize Israel's right to defend itself raise serious questions about whether Iraq, under your leadership, can play a constructive role in resolving the current crisis and bringing stability to the Middle East," the lawmakers wrote to Maliki.
"As you know, the American people have given so much in the name of fighting global terror and helping build a better future for the people of Iraq," the Senate Democrats said.
"Americans deserve to know whether Iraq is an ally in these fights.""
digby:
"I'm sure this must be some sort of very clever ploy that I'm just not getting. They're trapping Bush into something with this, right? They don't honestly think this is a good idea on the merits do they?"
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