Chairman Cole Leads Bipartisan National Security Trip to Middle East
Washington, D.C. – Amid rising threats and instability, House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole (R-OK) led a bipartisan delegation to the Middle East in support of strengthening America’s defense and reinforcing partnerships with allies. The Members met with heads of state and other leaders from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Israel to enhance their tactical understanding of ongoing conflicts caused by Iran’s proxies and discuss mutual objectives to achieve peace and security in the region.
Cole was joined by House Appropriations Ranking Member Rosa DeLauro (D-CT) and Representatives John Rutherford (R-FL), Ed Case (D-HI), and Mark Alford (R-MO).
During visits with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, King of Jordan Abdullah II bin Al-Hussein, and Saudi officials, the U.S. lawmakers held productive, high-level meetings on reinforcing strategic alliances, the importance of increased regional cooperation, and our shared commitments to supporting global security and the safety of our citizens.
Diplomacy is crucial to protecting American interests around the world, and the deepening of our engagement and security partnerships through these visits is a key element to that objective. The group agreed to unite to bolster peace and security during this difficult time.
In Israel, the delegation reiterated the unbreakable bond the United States shares with our friend and ally. While meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, and Foreign Minister Israel Katz, Members received briefings on military operations, continued efforts to rescue hostages, including American citizens, and the malign activities of Hamas, Hezbollah, and other Iranian-regime proxies. Just over a year after the deadliest attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust, the Members concluded their time in Israel with a visit to Mount Herzl to honor the tremendous stories of heroism and tragedy. On behalf of the U.S. House of Representatives, they laid a wreath at the cemetery in solemn remembrance of those lost.
Their final stop of the trip was to visit with officers and crew of a U.S. warship doing dangerous and heroic work in the eastern Mediterranean. These outstanding sailors defend our country and allies and make all Americans proud every day.
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