02.15.17

McConnell Welcomes Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

‘Over the years our nations have built a strong and enduring relationship — a relationship grounded in common values like democracy and individual freedom, a relationship guided by a clear-eyed view of the threats that face us.’

WASHINGTON, D.C. –U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) delivered the following remarks today on the Senate floor regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s visit to Washington, D.C.:

“Let me begin by welcoming a true friend of the United States: Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who will be visiting the Capitol later today.  Over the years our nations have built a strong and enduring relationship — a relationship grounded in common values like democracy and individual freedom, a relationship guided by a clear-eyed view of the threats that face us. 

“This relationship has grown closer and more valuable as terrorism has become a constant threat to our homeland — something the Israelis have known for decades — and as Iran has sought to expand its sphere of influence in an effort to remake the Middle East. I value our relationship greatly. I know President Trump does too.

“Now is the time to strengthen and affirm this important partnership as we move on from eight years of often needless tension, as we turn the page on an Administration that chose as one of its last actions in office to abandon our ally Israel — and, in so doing, to undermine any semblance of a peace process by encouraging the Palestinians to forego direct negotiations. 

“This afternoon I will reiterate to the Prime Minister my determination — which I know many in Congress share — to work with our new administration and underline America’s commitment to achieving peace with the Palestinians through a negotiated settlement in a way that protects Israel's vital national security interests.

“Our nations face many common threats. Strengthening this relationship makes each of us safer.  I hope colleagues will join me in extending a warm welcome to Prime Minister Netanyahu on his visit to the Capitol later today.”

Related Issues: Israel