At a time when Israel faces growing isolation around the world, the largest-ever delegation of US lawmakers, representing all 50 states, arrived in Israel.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa'ar both addressed the delegation at an event at the Foreign Ministry titled “50 States One Israel” on Monday.
“Welcome to Jerusalem, the eternal capital of Israel,” declared Lior Haiat, Deputy Director for North America at the Foreign Ministry, as he opened the event.
Speaking later to The Jerusalem Post, Haiat emphasized, "In a period like this, seeing bipartisan support from all 50 US states, in a historic event unprecedented in Israel’s history, reminds us that in difficult moments our true friends stand by our side."
The US lawmakers are in Israel for meetings with senior officials and tours across the country, underscoring their message that support for Israel in the US is a matter of national consensus.
“I thank you for coming here to stand with Israel. Thank you, Democrats and Republicans alike. We value and cherish your support. This is an active effort to counter attempts to besiege Israel - not isolated, not symbolic, but a real effort to push back," Netanyahu told the delegation.
Powerful example in fighting BDS, Sa'ar says
Sa'ar told the delegation that each of them has the ability to set a personal and powerful example in fighting the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement by turning it on its head.
"Instead of boycotting Israel, promote engagement with Israel. Instead of divesting from Israel, promote investments in Israel. And instead of sanctioning the only Jewish state, speak out clearly against those who recycle age-old hatred in modern form."
During their visit, the lawmakers will tour the Gaza border communities alongside local youth and lone soldiers who immigrated from the US. Following their visit, they will plant 50 trees, one for each US state, in a Keren Kayemeth LeIsrael-Jewish National Fund at Ofakim Park.
State legislators in the US play a crucial role in shaping policies that often touch on issues related to Israel, from combating boycotts and antisemitism to advancing US-Israel relations.
The delegation reflects the diversity of American society, ranging from representatives of major urban centers to lawmakers from rural agricultural regions, many of whom are not regularly exposed to Israel.
Asked by the Post whether any lawmakers had boycotted the visit, Haiat confirmed that some declined to come for various reasons. "There were a few for political reasons, but the vast majority we approached responded enthusiastically and immediately said yes."
"This demonstrates the very broad support for Israel that exists across American society," he said.
"At a time like this, seeing bipartisan support from all 50 US states, in a historic event unprecedented in Israel's history, reminds us that in difficult moments our true friends stand with us," he added.