Hoyer Statement on Israel's Independence Day

WASHINGTON, DC – Today, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-05) issued the following statement in recognition of Israel's Independence Day, Yom Ha’Atzmaut, and the seventy-fifth anniversary of Israel's founding:

"This Yom Ha’Atzmaut, I join Israelis, Americans, the Jewish community, and countless others around the world in celebrating Israel's seventy-five years of independence. Fulfilling an effort to establish an independent Jewish state in the ancestral homeland of the Jewish people that spanned generations, Israel's founding ushered in a new era for the Jewish community, the region, and the world. Israel, much like the United States, was built upon shared principles of liberty, justice, and democracy. That's why the United States became the first country to recognize the state of Israel just minutes after its founding and why our two nations have maintained a close bond and steadfast cooperation ever since.

"From fostering technological innovation and economic opportunity to protecting against threats to international peace and stability, our U.S.-Israel partnership has promoted greater prosperity, security, and democracy not only for our two countries but for the world. I have been proud to work with Congress to deepen our partnership over the years. Just this week, I joined a bipartisan coalition of House Members to pass a resolution reaffirming the importance of America's resolute relationship with Israel and calling for the expansion of the Abraham Accords.

"As one of our most reliable allies, Israel must be able to defend itself and its people so that it can remain an anchor of democracy in the region. I will keep working with my colleagues in the House – Democrats and Republicans alike – to make sure that the United States continues to honor that commitment. Similarly, I maintain my belief in our bipartisan consensus that negotiating a lasting two-state solution is the best way for Israel to ensure its people's security and its future as a democratic, Jewish nation.

"May Israel, its people, and our partnership continue to prosper for another 75 years and beyond."