Issue Position: US-Israeli Relationship

Issue Position

The United States and Israel have been close allies since the founding of the modern state of Israel, and we must maintain this close relationship. Our two nations share a common core set of values-- including free speech and commitment to liberty, the rule of law, democracy and free markets.

it is in the United States' vital national interests to maintain a close relationship with Israel. However, our support for Israel is also a moral question. In Genesis 12:3, God tells Abraham, "I will bless those who bless you and whoever curses you I will curse; and all peoples on earth will be blessed through you." As a Christian, I understand my moral obligation to stand with Israel.

As a Chief of Staff to three conservative Republican Congressmen, I have a background working on US-Israeli relations. I have visited Israel and know first-hand the challenges and importance of maintaining Israel's security. I have stood on the border with Lebanon and looked up at the snow-capped Golan Heights. I have seen the Hezbollah flag flying inside Lebanon within sight of our observation point. I have walked the streets of Serot with the Mayor and heard the pain in his voice as he described the psychological impact on the children and adults living under the stress of constant rocket attacks. In fact, several rockets landed nearby while we met with the Mayor and other officials in a school in the heart of the city. It is impossible to drive the short distance from the Mediterranean to the Jordan and not understand the unique security concerns Israel faces.

I also have experience with some of Israel's neighbors in the region. I have lead congressional staff delegations to Algeria, Saudi Arabia and Turkey. I have also visited Egypt. My ravel has given me a broad understanding of some of the key actors in North Africa and the Middle East. And, I have had the opportunity to defend the US-Israeli relationship to members of the government in each of these countries.

As a Member of Congress, I will be a passionate defender of Israel and I will do everything in my power to strengthen the partnership between Israel and the United States.

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