Malliotakis Statement on Israeli President Isaac Herzog's Address to Congress

July 19, 2023

(WASHINGTON, DC) - Today Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis (NY-11) released the below statement following Israeli President Isaac Herzog's address to a Joint Meeting of Congress:

"As someone who proudly represents a large Jewish population, it was an honor to be selected by Speaker McCarthy to escort Israeli President Isaac Herzog into the House Chamber for his historic and brilliant speech in honor of the 75th anniversary of Israel.

"Stability in and around Israel is dependent on the ever-growing military and security partnership between our two nations and we must continue to foster and strengthen this relationship. As our bilateral bond continues to evolve, we must ensure our nations continue to build upon the success of the Abraham Accords that has brought economic opportunities and stability to the region, and work toward our shared ultimate goal of peace in the Middle East. As President Herzog so eloquently said, 'When Israel is strong, the United States is more secure.'

"Despite recent ignorant and antisemitic rhetoric by some far-left members in our chamber, Israel is one of our country's strongest allies and a key strategic partner in the Middle East. President Herzog’s strong rebuke of the anti-Semitism expressed by a few Members of Congress who simply do not want Israel to exist was on point and appreciated by the rest of us.

"As the Biden Administration is irresponsibly looking to suspend sanctions and negotiate another flawed Nuclear Deal with Iran, the world's leading state sponsor of terrorism, it's critically important for Congress to assert its authority over any agreement and protect Israel from aggressors in the region. I also commend President Herzog for his desire to make peace with his Palestinian neighbors during this time of political unrest and the United States should support these efforts."

Malliotakis also attended House Republicans' press conference to show support for the state of Israel, which can be viewed HERE.

Malliotakis, whose district encompasses Staten Island and Southern Brooklyn, represents a large Jewish population and has been locally supportive of Jewish organizations and our ally Israel. In Congress, Malliotakis serves on the House Committee on Ways and Means which overseas trade, and previously served on the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Israel is the first Country Malliotakis visited as a Member of Congress.

Issues: Congress