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Source: http://www.nysun.com/article/31674
Security Fence an Absolute Necessity
(New York Sun) Jack Kemp - Contrary to the thrust of a recent Robert Novak column, Israel's Christian population has prospered and quadrupled in size over the last half century, in sharp contrast to the dwindling Christian communities in other countries in the Middle East. The continued dwindling of Christian communities in the Palestinian areas can be directly traced to the constant harassment to which they have been subjected by Islamic extremists. Never in history have residents in Jerusalem enjoyed more freedom of access to the holy places as under Israel's sovereignty. Israel's founding ethos guarantees freedom of religion and conscience while safeguarding the holy places of all religions. Novak also neglected to mention Israel's security barrier was a last-ditch effort to halt the march of Palestinian suicide bombers on Israel's cities that resulted in the killing and maiming of thousands. The fact that the barrier has contributed to a remarkable decline in terrorist attacks - approximately 90% - is evidence of its effectiveness. In planning the route of the barrier, particularly in the vicinity of Jerusalem, Israel has demonstrated particular sensitivity to Christian concerns. The route was determined, and in several cases altered, after a comprehensive dialogue with representatives of the various church denominations.