For Immediate Release
May 18, 2016

– As Delivered – Click Here for Video –

WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following remarks at the full Committee markup of a resolution calling for the safety and security for Iranian dissidents living in Iraq’s Camp Liberty (H.Res.650):

“We’re also considering House Resolution 650, calling for the safety and security of the Iranian dissidents living in Camp Liberty in Iraq. I want to thank Mr. Poe and Mr. Higgins for working on this measure, which I’m proud to cosponsor.

“I want to welcome our friends wearing their yellow jackets to this Committee today. And believe me, we are very concerned about Camp Liberty and we’re making everyone know that we’re keeping a watchful eye to make sure those people are protected.

“The residents of Camp Liberty deserve to live in dignity and without fear of violence. Last October’s rocket attacks on the unarmed residents of Camp Liberty by a Shia militia with ties to Iran killed 24 people. It’s the height of cowardice. We are still waiting for the perpetrators of this attack to be brought to justice.

“I would also note that my amendment to this resolution highlights Albania’s commitments to resettling Camp Liberty residents. They have resettled 1,000 already and are committed to resettle 2,000 more. I have worked closely with the Albanian government in all the years I’ve been in Congress. This shows a tremendous generosity of spirit and commitment to care for the most vulnerable on the part of the people of Albania.

“This resolution sends a message that we stand with the men, women, and children in Camp Liberty and want to see quick and meaningful action to bring them relief.