I wanted to send you a brief note recapping my recent trip to Israel.
Last week, I was privileged to lead nine members of Congress on a trip to Israel to show our solidarity and learn about defensive technologies. We were the very first elected officials to visit since the attacks on Israel broke out in July.
Along with an emotional trip to Yad Vashem, Israel’s Holocaust Memorial Museum, we were privileged to meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu, former President Shimon Peres, military leaders, political leaders, and Israeli citizens. I am pleased to report that, even during this trying time, the Israeli resolve and spirit is as strong as ever, and their commitment to finding security and peace has never been greater.
More than anything, my trip reaffirmed my long-standing belief that Israeli families, communities, and citizens have as strong a right to security as those in any other free society. While we are heartbroken by the loss of civilian life on both sides of this recent conflict, we must never back down from Israel’s responsibility to defend itself from attack.
Americans would never accept a barrage of thousands of rockets being launched into our country or a terrorist tunnel network meant for infiltration – and the Israelis won’t either.
Finally, it cannot be understated how critical continued American support is for Israeli defense, intelligence, and morale, and the Israeli people are immensely grateful. Countless Israeli lives have been saved because of American financial and technical support for the Iron Dome missile defense system, and I have proudly and consistently supported its funding.
This critical system prevents Hamas’ rockets from hitting their targets in Israel before they land and has effectively created an invisible defense fortress around much of Israel’s populated areas.
My commitment to supporting the State of Israel, her people, and her cause will never waiver. Israel is America’s closest ally, and I was happy to once again stand with the Israeli people during such a critical time.
Rep. Steve Israel
D-3rd District
