Rep. Kirkpatrick Returns From Israel Trip; Focused On Working With Israelis To Combat Terrorism

Rep. Kirkpatrick Returns From Israel Trip; Focused On Working With Israelis To Combat Terrorism

Representative Ann Kirkpatrick returned to Greater Arizona Sunday at the end of a productive eight-day trip to Israel. The Congresswoman took the opportunity to learn more about the ever-present terrorist threat Israel faces and the value of a solid U.S.-Israel relationship in the struggle against Al Qaeda and global terrorism.

Rep. Kirkpatrick was one of 29 Members of Congress to make the trip, out of 31 who had planned to participate. She had the chance to discuss how we can more effectively address security threats and other issues with Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu, Defense Minister Ehud Barak, Israel Defense Forces Director of Military Intelligence Major General Amos Yedlin and key military and civilian leaders.

“Israel is a critical ally in our fight against terrorism, and both sides gain so much from our unique strategic partnership,” said Rep. Kirkpatrick. “We should do all that we can to support their efforts and continue to strengthen our long-standing relationship.”

The group also toured military bases and strategic sites across the country and met with leaders from the Palestinian territories such as Palestinian Authority Prime Minister Salam Fayyad.

“In these challenging times, our government's most important responsibility is protecting our communities,” said Rep. Kirkpatrick. “By working together with the Israelis, we can make real strides against violent extremist groups and do more to keep our Nation safe.”

As the only Arizonan on the House Committee on Homeland Security, Rep. Kirkpatrick is dedicated to securing our borders and entry points, guarding our infrastructure and addressing the unique challenges that law enforcement personnel face in this state. Israel is a world leader in homeland security programs, and the Congresswoman is interested in taking the best practices in place in Israel and employing them in the United States to defend our homeland.