On the recordMay 9, 2023
I thank the gentleman for organizing this Special Order. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Israel's 75th birthday and 75 years of the U.S.-Israel relationship. The bipartisan alliance is vital to America's national security and to our fight against terror, including the threat of Iran and its proxies. Last night, we witnessed the IDF neutralize dangerous PIJ in the Gaza Strip. Day after day, as Israel is threatened, the Iron Dome stands strong against those who seek to do its people harm, whether that is Hamas or Hezbollah or Palestinian Jihad. I remain in steadfast support of Israel's right to defend itself, because, as I said, Israel's security is key to America's national security. It is the democracy in the region. Over 75 years, Israel has emerged as not only a beacon of democracy, but also a leader of technologic, economic, and security, both in Israel and, of course, in great support to the United States. I have had the honor of visiting Israel many times and witnessed firsthand the country's beauty and the people's resilience. It is a homeland for Jews from around the world. In my most recent trip, you can see and feel the palpable excitement about the Abraham Accords as Israel continues to make history as it normalizes with its Arab neighbors, expanding opportunities across the region, security protection, economic opportunity.…
Source
govinfo.gov




