U.S. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a ceremony at Knesset on Wednesday the United States’ support for Israel and regional stability remains “ironclad.”
“Our delegation expressed the unwavering support of the Congress for Israel’s security and regional stability. We also discussed how our nations are together in the fight against terrorism posed by Iran—both in its proximity to Israel, which is a responsibility to us all, and its nuclear development, which is a global threat,” Pelosi said in a speech.
Knesset Speaker Mickey Levy, who greeted Pelosi at the ceremony, highlighted Israel’s concern about Iran, saying that Iran “must not be allowed to develop nuclear capabilities.”
“Iran is a terror state whose actions are aimed at wreaking havoc and destruction in every corner of the world,” Levy said, The Times of Israel reported. “We remember the firm support of the United States for Israel’s security throughout history.”
Levy also pointed out that he is grateful for the United States passing a bill in September that would provide additional funding for the country’s Iron Dome missile-defense system. Pelosi noted that she hopes the Senate will “very soon” approve the additional funding that was passed in the House last fall.
“In the coming days, our delegation will continue our discussions on how the United States and Israel will remain laser-focused on advancing security, economy, and governance in meetings with Israeli and Palestinian civic organizations,” Pelosi said.
The Democrat landed in Israel on Wednesday as part of a congressional delegation to the country. She is joined by Reps. Adam Schiff (D-Calif.), Barbara Lee (D-Calif.), Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.), Ted Deutch (D-Fla.), Bill Keating (D-Mass.), Ro Khanna (D-Calif.), and Andy Kim (D-N.J.).
The face-to-face diplomacy came at a tense time in the allies’ relationship as talks about a deal to rein in Iran’s nuclear capabilities drag on in Vienna. Israel has said it will not be bound by any international agreement concerning Iran’s nuclear program and says it is prepared to take military action if needed to prevent Iran from obtaining nuclear arms. Iran insists its nuclear program is solely for peaceful purposes.
Pelosi is set to meet Palestinian leader Mahmoud Abbas in Ramallah on Thursday. Her schedule did not include a visit to the Gaza Strip, which is ruled by the Hamas terrorist group.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
