Israel
As a Jewish American, I have a deep personal connection to the State of Israel, and I have consistently been a steadfast friend and supporter of the Jewish state in her quest for peace and security. Both at home in my district and in the halls of Congress, I am always working to strengthen the U.S.-Israel bond, and to advance the security of the only true democracy in the Middle East, our ally Israel.
I am committed to ensuring the survival of Israel as a Jewish State. A negotiated, two-state solution that provides safety and security for all people in Israel alongside a Palestinian state offers the best prospect for long-term peace for the region. Such an agreement has the potential to provide lasting security for Israel, a better life for Palestinians, and a future for both. While the United States cannot dictate the terms of a peace agreement, strong U.S. leadership in support of peace remains critical.
Israel continues to face serious security threats, and U.S.-Israel security cooperation is as close as it has ever been. In addition to critical security funding and weapons sales for the Jewish state, the U.S. engages in training and joint military exercises with our Israeli partners and supports the research and development of new defense systems. In addition, the U.S. and Israel continue to closely partner in efforts to halt Iranian aggression and pursuit of nuclear weapons.
More on Israel
I just left the House floor where I voted in favor of a continuing resolution to keep our government open and fully funded into January. This continuing resolution funds our government at fiscal year 2023 levels with no spending cuts. Today’s vote is not only a victory for the Democrats, who worked diligently to avoid a catastrophic government shutdown, but most importantly for the American people.
I recently became aware of two alarming and hateful acts in my district. The first incident occurred late last week in the Devonshire neighborhood of Skokie when numerous ‘We Stand with Israel’ signs were vandalized and shredded apart. The second display occurred at a rally in Evanston on Saturday where the antisemitic Hamas flag was flaunted. I wholeheartedly condemn these actions.
It has been 24 days since Hamas’ horrifying terrorist attack on Israel, in which more than 1,400 Israelis were killed and over 5,400 injured. Hamas also captured over 200 hostages, including several Americans. Jewish communities around the world are in shock, grieving, and scared of the increased antisemitism and violence that have been spurred by the war. Israel has a right to defend itself and its citizens in accordance with international law.
The past two weeks have been absolutely horrifying and heartbreaking, but we finally got a message of hope. On Friday, I received word that two of my constituents, Judith and Natalie Raanan, a mother and daughter from Evanston who were being held hostage by Hamas, have been released. They are currently in good hands with the Red Cross, but I cannot wait to welcome them back home. I am sending them my love and strength. I will continue to pray and do all I can to ensure the safe and swift return of all other hostages held by Hamas.
I cannot tell you what a relief it is to finally have some good news. My team and I have dealt with the State Department almost every day, we have talked with the family, sent so many prayers, and now, we finally got the good news that Natalie and Judith are free.
One week ago, Hamas launched a horrific attack against Israel, committing unspeakable terrorism and inflicting the deadliest day for Jewish people since the Holocaust. As a Jew, this is extremely painful and personal for me. We must all stand united and unequivocally condemn the vicious attack carried out by Hamas.
