64th Anniversary of the Modern State of Israel

Floor Speech

Mr. GARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I am honored today to recognize the 64th anniversary of the establishment of the modern State of Israel.

On May 14, 1948, the British Mandate for Palestine expired, and the Jewish People's Council approved the Declaration of the Establishment of the State of Israel. That document encapsulates centuries of hopes, hardships, dreams, persecutions, tenacity, and faith. And it signifies the fulfillment of the prayer of the Jewish people: To return once again to their homeland and build a nation based on the principles of freedom, justice, and peace.

It is fitting that on that same day, President Harry Truman signed his name to the announcement recognizing the provisional government of the new Jewish state as the de facto authority of the State of Israel, thus making the United States the first nation to recognize Israel as a nation.

In that moment 64 years ago, and in every moment since, the Jewish people have persevered in the face of adversity, thriving as a nation and as a people, and contributing globally to advancements in areas ranging from academia, economics, and business to arts, culture, and politics. And all the while, the Jewish people have continued to live as a people who, as the Declaration states, love peace but know how to defend themselves.

In the decades that have passed since that momentous event, Israel has remained the United States strongest ally in the Middle East, and the United States has stood steadfastly with Israel. Today, and in the days that
lie ahead, we must continue to stand unwaveringly with Israel. As the modern State of Israel celebrates 64 years, I join with countless others to extend my congratulations to the Jewish people--in Israel, in the United States, and around the world. And I offer my heartfelt prayers for the safety, peace, and prosperity of the State of Israel.

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