Hoyer Statement on Israel’s Independence Day
Mariel Saez 202-225-3130
WASHINGTON, DC - House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer (MD) released the following statement on the 68th anniversary of Israel's Independence Day, which begins at sundown this evening:
“Yom Ha’atzmaut is a day of celebration not just for Israelis but for Americans too. That’s because the establishment and success of the modern Jewish State of Israel reflects not only the culmination of centuries of yearning for self-determination but a triumph of the values of democracy and individual freedom that both our nations hold dear. Together our nations have fought terror and demonstrated that free people will never be cowed by fear or threats. Together we have brought new technologies and opportunities to the world through economic partnerships and joint research. Together we are working to eradicate anti-Semitism and other forms of bigotry that fuel violence and needless suffering. Our partnership is rooted in the firmest foundation of enduring values and the common mission of tikkun olam – repairing the world.
“In my fourteen visits to Israel since being elected to Congress, I’ve witnessed the resilience of a people facing existential threats on a daily basis. No rockets or tunnels of terror can extinguish the age-old yearning for peace and security in their ancient homeland. No threats of boycott or isolation can alter the fact that Israel exists, because it must exist – it has an unalienable right to exist and an indisputable right to defend itself and its citizens.
“In my meetings with Israelis and their elected leaders, the same truth continues to be told: that Israel and America are made safer and have a greater opportunity to prosper when our nations work together. Whether it is preventing Iran from obtaining a nuclear arms capability, combatting Hamas and Hezbollah’s destabilizing violence, or supporting development and humanitarian efforts around the world, the work we do together reflects the unbreakable bond between us. I am proud to be a leader in the bipartisan coalition in Congress that works to strengthen and reinforce that bond, and I join in wishing the people of Israel and Jewish communities around the world a very happy Yom Ha’atzmaut.”