Loudermilk Supports Israel's Energy Resources

Statement

With the recent discovery of natural gas off the coast of Israel, Rep. Loudermilk (R-GA) took the republican lead on an amendment authorizing the U.S. to help protect Israel's coastline and gas infrastructure from attacks.

The Israel Maritime Assistance amendment enables the procurement of the David's Sling weapon system for the purposes of intercepting short-range missiles, promoting Israel's inclusion in naval exercises, increasing visits of U.S. naval vessels to Israeli ports, and researching for the continued development of advanced maritime domain awareness capabilities.

"The discovery of vast offshore natural gas resources in Israel's exclusive economic zone is a major advancement for Israel's economy, national security, and energy independence," said Rep. Loudermilk. "However, these vital resources also pose a major security risk for Israel. The Tamar and Leviathan gas fields are vulnerable to attack by Iranian-sponsored terrorists operating in Lebanon and Gaza. This bill would help secure these valuable resources for our closest ally in the Middle East, and provide a viable source of natural gas for our allies."

"Further coordination between the U.S. and Israel will help to lessen dependence on foreign oil and bolster global energy security," said Rep. Brian Higgins, a member of the House Committees on Foreign Affairs and Homeland Security.

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