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House Passes Bipartisan Resolution in Support of Israel

May 10, 2018

WASHINGTON – Today the House passed H. Res. 835, a resolution introduced by Reps. Michael McCaul (R-TX), Albio Sires (D-NJ), Virginia Foxx (R-NC), and Nita Lowey (D-NY). The resolution calls for all nations to enter into robust diplomatic relations with Israel upon its 70th year of statehood. It also highlights Israel's recent advances in diplomacy and affirms the importance of diplomatic recognition of the nation in multilateral fora globally.

Statement by Representative McCaul:

"Yesterday's egregious attacks against Israel by Iran exemplifies why we must remain steadfast in our support for our Israeli partners. Since its independence in 1948, Israel has thrived in a turbulent region surrounded by few who recognize its existence as a state and enemies who issue threats of annihilation on a regular basis. With the passage of this resolution in the House, there should be no confusion amongst the international community as to where our relationship stands now and where it will be in the future. As we approach the 70th anniversary of Israel as a state, we must reflect on our strong bilateral relationship, and continue working together to advance our common interests internationally."

U.S. Representative Michael McCaul represents Texas' 10th Congressional District is Chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security and a senior member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Statement by Representative Foxx:

"May 14, 2018 marks the 70th anniversary of the State of Israel; it also marks the beginning of a longstanding friendship between the U.S. and our strategic ally. I'm pleased to support the passage of H. Res. 835 today, which sends a united message from the House of Representatives to the UN and the world that respect for Israel's national sovereignty and broad recognition of its statehood is a priority for U.S. national security and achieving peace in the Middle East. As Israel furthers its diplomatic reach, the U.S. will continue to support its trade partner, fellow member state in international organizations, ally and friend."

U.S. Rep. Virginia Foxx represents North Carolina's 5th Congressional District and is the chairwoman of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce.

Statement by Representative Sires:

"I would like to thank my colleagues Rep. Foxx, Rep. McCaul, and Rep. Lowey for their work and commitment to getting this important and timely House resolution passed. Israel is a key strategic ally to the United States and continues to play an important and stabilizing role in the region and abroad. This bipartisan resolution marks an incredible milestone for the state of Israel, and I hope that our two countries can continue to work together for generations to come. I applaud my colleagues in the House for unanimously passing this resolution and look forward to continued prosperity and security for the state of Israel."

Rep. Sires is a member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and sits on the Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats.

Statement by Representative Lowey:

"In just 70 years, Israel has overcome seemingly impossible odds to become a light unto the nations. Despite these achievements, Israel is continually treated unfairly at the United Nations and other international fora. With the passage of H.Res. 835, the House of Representatives is sending a strong message of support for the ironclad U.S.-Israel relationship, the expansion of Israel's diplomatic relations, and a negotiated two-state solution to the Middle East conflict."

U.S. Representative Nita Lowey represents New York's 17th Congressional District and is the ranking member of the House Appropriations Committee and its State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee.