Statement

Congressman Richard E. Neal released the following statement today after President Obama signed the United States-Israel Enhanced Security Act into law last week. Neal was a Co-Sponsor of the bill, H.R. 4133, and voted in favor of the bipartisan legislation when it passed the U.S. House of Representatives in May:

"As a strong supporter of the State of Israel, I applaud President Obama for signing the U.S.-Israel Security Cooperation Act. The United States has no greater friend in the Middle East, and this agreement will only strengthen the historic bonds between our two great nations. It also reaffirms how committed the American people are to Israel's security and to finding a path to lasting peace in the region.

Having visited Israel, and knowing the daily threat it faces from its neighbors, I strongly believe the Israelis have every a right to defend themselves. Israel is a sovereign nation, and our support and friendship remains unwavering, particularly when it comes to security issues. As they face provocation from bad actors like Iran, Hamas and Hezbollah, we will continue to stand in solidarity with our friends and allies.

The alliance between the United States and Israel has been significantly enhanced by the signing of this unprecedented agreement. It will expand security and intelligence cooperation between the two states, but it is also a reflection of our shared and common values. As the only democracy in the region, a safe and secure Israel will always be in the best interest of the United States national security."