RJC Applauds Speaker Kevin McCarthy's Historic Knesset Speech

Washington, DC – The Republican Jewish Coalition released the following statement applauding Speaker Kevin McCarthy's historic speech to the Israeli Knesset in Jerusalem:

By making Israel the destination for his first overseas trip since becoming Speaker, Kevin McCarthy sent a strong message that the alliance between the United States and the Jewish state is of paramount importance. The power of the message was reinforced by the Speaker’s decision to make his delegation’s visit during Israel’s 75th anniversary celebration a bipartisan one.

It was a message of deep solidarity: 

"Our values are your values. Our heritage is your heritage. Our dreams are your dreams. America is grateful for our friendship with Israel. We are a better nation because of it and we must never shy away from defending it.

In his Knesset speech, the Speaker directly addressed the threat from Iran, saying America and Israel must work “shoulder to shoulder” to counter the Islamic Republic’s regional aggression and that together, “we must be resolute that Iran will never acquire a nuclear weapon.”

Speaker McCarthy also spoke forthrightly about the urgency of combating anti-Israel and antisemitic movements and institutions, correctly calling out the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions campaign and the United Nations Human Rights Council. Noting Congress’ role in funding the UN, he pledged to “increase the pressure” for real reforms there.

Speaker McCarthy spoke for America today. The unique bond between America and Israel is stronger because of the Speaker’s powerful words and meaningful actions.