Hoyer Statement on New Memorandum of Understanding with Israel

“I am very pleased that the Administration has finalized a Memorandum of Understanding with the government of Israel that reasserts our nation’s robust commitment to Israel’s security and furthers the pursuit of our common interests.   Never have Israel’s security needs been more stark --  ISIL and other terrorist groups on Israel’s northern border; Hezbollah pointing hundreds of thousands of rockets towards Israel; Hamas using tunnels and missiles to threaten innocent civilians; and a theocratic regime emboldened in Tehran and committed to Israel’s destruction.  This MOU communicates to Israel’s enemies that the United States stands firmly beside our ally, both because of our common values and our strong mutual interests.      

“That this Memorandum of Understanding includes $5 billion in support of missile defense systems is crucial.  Those living in Israel’s border communities should not have to live in constant fear for their lives and those of their children.  It also includes $33 billion in foreign military financing over the next decade, representing a significant increase over the last Memorandum of Understanding.  This financing will enable the Israeli Defense Forces to maintain its qualitative military edge and support aerospace and defense industry jobs for American workers.   

“I’ve been proud to be a leader of the broad, bipartisan coalition in Congress in support of the strong U.S.-Israel relationship.  I’ve partnered with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to pass legislation enhancing economic and security ties with Israel and have traveled to the country more than a dozen times since coming to Congress to show support for Israel and its people in their struggle for security and peace.   I join in thanking the President and his team who worked hard to reach this agreement, and I look forward to continuing to work with them to ensure that the United States always stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Israel and its people.”