Hultgren Statement on Passing of Shimon Peres

Statement

U.S. Representative Randy Hultgren (IL-14) today released a statement following the passing of Shimon Peres, former prime minister and president of Israel, and recipient of the Nobel Peace Prize, Congressional Gold Medal and the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

"Shimon Peres was a towering figure in Israel's history who led the nation militarily and exercised skillful diplomacy with its neighbors. The last of the nation's founding fathers, he devoted himself to defending the state of Israel, serving at all levels of the military and elected government. He was a true statesman, demonstrating unwavering determination to pursue the worthy goals of peace with Israel's adversaries and an independent standing in the world. His singular vision of a strong and peaceful Israel directed the actions of the nation through tumultuous decades.

"I met with Shimon Peres when I visited Israel two summers ago, and even into his 90s he was a strong advocate for peace. His peace center, just south of Tel Aviv, aims to bring together young people on each side of the Israel-Gaza conflict to resolve hostilities and build bridges of understanding. Our thoughts and prayers are with our ally Israel as its people mourn the passing of one of their greatest leaders."

Source