Rep. August Pfluger and Michael Makovsky
Washington Times, Oct. 19, 2023
“The opposition to assistance for Israel is disconnected from the prevailing realities in the Middle East — where Israel works toward peace with its Arab neighbors, including Saudi Arabia.”
Earlier this month, the world watched in horror as Iranian-backed terrorists went from door to door, kidnapping, killing and injuring innocent Israelis. More Jews were murdered this past Oct. 7 than on any single day since the Holocaust.
As Israel confronts these barbaric attacks, it is not enough for American leaders to rhetorically support the Jewish state. Israel needs concrete military assistance to defend itself, which Congress should provide immediately. The United States must also do everything it can to stanch the flow of money that allows Iran to support such terror operations.
Since Israel’s creation 75 years ago, the United States has been unwavering in its support of Israel, which has emerged as the largest cumulative recipient of U.S. foreign assistance. This investment has borne fruit, propelling Israel’s armed forces to the vanguard of technological advancement and nurturing a robust defense industrial base in the country. Such strides have not only fortified Israel but have also advanced our strategic interests and are helping defend American lives.
In recent years, voices advocating a reduction or even cessation of military assistance to Israel have emerged. These calls have already done real harm. After Hamas terrorists launched nearly 4,500 rockets at Israel over 11 days in May 2021, Congress took nearly a year to approve funds to replenish Israel’s stock of interceptors for the Iron Dome missile shield. … [To read the full article, click here]