Issue Position: Israel

Issue Position

As an ally to the United States, Israel continues to back the United States at the United Nations and other international bodies, evidenced recently by its support of United States' UN sponsored resolution condemning the bloodshed in Syria. For this and many other reasons, I have remained a strong proponent of military aid to Israel, which helps ensure the integrity of Israel's defense forces and allows that nation to defend its citizens. Last year I voted for foreign military and security assistance and believe it is important that Congress does so again later this year. Any attempts to undermine our support will not be accepted at a time when Iran has ramped up its nuclear weapons program and the Middle East remains in turmoil. It is important that you and others reinforce this point with other members of Congress in the upcoming months.

With a firm conviction that President Obama's position undermined Israel, I took an early and vocal stance against his view that Israel should retreat to its 1967 border to further bring along the peace process. To expect Israel to provide concessions to those that desire its destruction is not only reckless, but also dangerous for the region's stability.

During the current Congress, I have cosponsored legislation that has not only condemned and penalized Iran for its nuclear weapons program, but also strengthens and solidifies our nation's unwavering support for our democratic ally in the Middle East. I have cosponsored legislation expressing the sense of the House of Representatives regarding the importance of preventing the Government of Iran from acquiring nuclear weapon capabilities (House Resolution 568), expressing the support for Israel's right to defend itself against such aggression (House Resolution 630) and the United States-Israel Enhanced Security Cooperation Act (House Bill 4133). These legislative measures will help ensure that any and all means necessary can be taken to prevent Iran from acquiring weapons of mass destruction, which can be used against our friends and neighbors in the region. In addition, I am also a cosponsor of House Bill 890, the Justice for Holocaust Survivors Act.

The Iranian President has made it very clear he wishes to destroy the State of Israel, and we must leave all available options to stop his threatened aggression on the table. Also, with the uncertainty of the Arab Spring, we must now more than ever be aware of new governments taking power with stated opposition to Israel, such as the Muslim Brotherhood in Egypt. Our nation is no longer a stranger to terrorism, and we have learned the lesson that maintaining security at home often extends beyond our borders. Standing with Israel in this time of uncertainty not only reaffirms our commitment to democracy, but protects us at home as well.

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to meet with members of the Central Florida delegation to the annual AIPAC Policy Conference. Witnessing the commitment and passion of these advocates of strong American-Israeli relations further strengthens my resolve and support for our strongest ally.

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