Evidence is strong that congressional opponents of an Armenian genocide resolution have enough votes to kill the measure, and that is good. Supporters of the proposal, such as House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, continue to promote the issue, but they apparently have not done their homework and are operating on emotion rather than logic.

The resolution describes Ottoman Empire massacres of the 1915-23 period as genocide. Turkish officials admit that deaths of great consequence occurred during the period in question but say that conditions of war existed and many died from a number of causes. An estimated 1.5 million Armenians died, according to the resolution in question, and 500,000 were expelled by the Ottomans. Those backing the measure said it amounted to “the elimination of the over 2,500-year presence of Armenians in their historic homeland.”

Pelosi should note that Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., one of her chief advisers, has been fighting Armenian genocide resolutions since 1987. He has continued to oppose the measure, and it is surprising that Pelosi seems so dedicated to its approval.

Opponents, including President Bush, consider the resolution an insult to a key NATO ally, Turkey, which figures prominently in American activities in the Middle East. The U.S. occupation of Iraq has intensified White House concern since more than 70 percent of U.S. military cargo goes through Incirlik Air Base in Turkey.

“Congress has more important work to do than antagonizing a democratic ally in the Muslim world, especially one that is providing vital support for our military every day,” the president said in a Wednesday morning news conference.

Resolution backers, perhaps including Pelosi, admit they will not force the issue if support continues to wane. It is difficult even for Democrats to understand why the speaker has been so adamant and forceful on the matter. Republicans, of course, contend she should turn her attention to more pressing issues.

If members of Congress believe that the judgments of history are not sufficient in this case, they can always pursue this matter at some future date. Now is not the time.