Press Releases

JERUSALEM — A congressional delegation, led by Readiness Subcommittee Chairman Joe Wilson (R-SC), visited Israel this week to meet with senior government officials and to participate in the opening of the new U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.

The delegation discussed the critical U.S.-Israeli alliance, received an on-the-ground update on the security challenges in the region, and discussed ongoing security cooperation efforts between the two nations. The members also highlighted key elements of the FY19 National Defense Authorization Act, which is expected to be debated on the House floor in the coming weeks. The bill authorizes $500 million for the co-development of missile defense systems and co-production of Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow weapons systems in partnership with Israel.

In addition to discussing ongoing security cooperation, on Monday the Members joined other senior U.S. and Israeli officials, as well as other dignitaries, for the formal opening of the U.S. Embassy in Jerusalem.

The delegation included:

Chairman Joe Wilson (SC)
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (FL)
Rep. Dennis Ross (FL)
Rep. Ron DeSantis (FL)
Rep. George Holding (NC)
Rep. Tom Rice (SC)
Rep. Jody Hice (GA)
Rep. Steve Knight (CA)
Rep. Lee Zeldin (NY)
Rep. Scott Taylor (VA)

Meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Delegation meets with Avi Dichter, Chairman of the Foreign Affairs & Defense Committee in the Knesset

Members with U.S. Ambassador of Israel, David Friedman