Recognizing the 64th Anniversary of the Establishment of the State of Israel

Floor Speech

Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 64th anniversary of the establishment of the State of Israel.

Today, Israelis and their friends around the world celebrate the renewal of a Jewish State in the land of Israel. Since the U.S. became the first country to recognize Israel, a mere 11 minutes after her founding, the relationship between our two nations has continued to grow and strengthen. That friendship is as important now as it was in 1948, and, after 64 years of cooperation and collaboration, we still subscribe to the same Democratic ideals, face the same global threats, and share the same dreams. As a Jew and a Member of Congress, I am committed to continuously working to grow and strengthen the U.S.-Israel relationship.

Israel is not just a strategic ally, but also a friend and partner of the United States. I have traveled to Israel many times in recent years, and I am continuously impressed by the high level of technology, energy, and scientific innovation. Even as Israelis face an uncertain security outlook and the very real possibility of violence from neighboring nations, Israel continues to be a leader in innovation.

Today we celebrate, but yesterday we paused for Israel's Memorial Day to remember the many men and women who have been killed defending the Jewish state. According to the Israeli government, 22,993 men and women have given their lives defending the land of Israel since 1860, and 2,457 people have been killed in terror attacks. In the past year, 126 members of the Israeli security forces have been killed in the line of duty.

After 64 years, Israel continues to be our closest friend and ally in the Middle East, and the United States remains absolutely committed to ensuring a secure future for the Jewish State. For over six decades, the cornerstone of that relationship has been bipartisan agreement recognizing the critical importance of that relationship to both our nations.

As we celebrate the 64th anniversary of the founding of the State of Israel, this Congress, this Administration, and this country will continue to work together with our Israeli partners to ensure a secure and peaceful future for Israel and the entire Middle East.

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