In a landmark development following last week’s Joint Meeting of Congress with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Speaker McCarthy and Leader Jeffries have appointed 12 Members of Congress to form a Parliamentary Friendship Group with the Israeli Knesset. This historic initiative will be spearheaded by Congressman David Kustoff (TN-08).
In May, Speaker McCarthy and Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana signed a joint pledge to establish a mutual friendship group that commemorates the enduring and special relationship between Israel and America, while also taking steps to reinforce and enhance it.
Under this agreement, the Members of the Friendship Group will have the opportunity to engage in more direct interactions with Israel’s Knesset. Additionally, the initiative will enable them to continue traveling to Israel on a bipartisan basis, fostering a deeper understanding and cooperation between the two nations. Similarly, the Friendship Group will also play host to Knesset members who visit America, further facilitating the exchange of ideas and collaboration.
Speaker McCarthy expressed his excitement about the growing partnership and enduring friendship between Israel and America, as the two nations enter a new chapter of collaboration.
“For the first time in history, the 435 members of the House and the 120 members of the Knesset have a forum to engage directly with one another, seek solutions that benefit our nations, and faithfully represent our peoples’ hopes and dreams together,” said McCarthy.
The Speaker highlighted his anticipation to work closely with Speaker Ohana in this endeavor, believing that it will further strengthen the special relationship between Israel and America.
Leader Jeffries emphasized the bipartisan and unwavering commitment of the United States Congress to a “safe and secure” Israel.
“The special relationship between our two nations is anchored in our shared democratic values and strategic interests. It is this relationship that the members of the House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group will strengthen as they come together with our Israeli counterparts,” add Jeffries.
Who will serve on the House-Knesset Parliamentary Friendship Group?
- David Kustoff, Chairman
- Ann Wagner
- Nicole Malliotakis
- Anthony D’Esposito
- John James
- Mike Lawler
- Max Miller
- Dean Phillips, Ranking Member
- Brad Sherman
- Kathy Manning
- Ritchie Torres
- Nikema Williams
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