When I was stationed on a nuclear-powered aircraft carrier deployed off the coasts of North Korea and China, I was one of seven Tactical Action Officers on board. We led watch teams responsible for the ship’s self-defense, reporting directly to the Captain, and had weapons-release authority to defend the $8 billion ship and its 5,000 American lives.

To protect the carrier effectively, we followed a “defense in depth” strategy, positioning layers of resilient American cruisers, destroyers, and frigates around the carrier’s perimeter. This strategy is analogous to the approach America must follow with our ally Israel.

A Shared Threat

Those wishing to eliminate Israel pose the same threat to the United States. The 1993 and 2001 attacks on the World Trade Center demonstrated that even an ocean’s distance couldn't shield us from terrorists. Israel has faced attacks for over 70 years, including a 9/11-style attack on October 7th, 2023, which altered its trajectory forever. From suicide bombings to indiscriminate rocket fire on civilians, Israel faces near-daily threats from Hamas, Hezbollah, and Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Israel is the battle-tested cruiser to America's aircraft carrier. For our own country's sake and the moral imperative to protect an ally, we must continue investing in Israel’s defense.

Support in Congress

In Congress, I have supported the $3.8 billion in annual security assistance to Israel, as outlined in the U.S.-Israel MOU, including continued sharing of intelligence, cooperation in cybersecurity and counterterrorism, and funding for the Iron Dome and Iron Beam systems. I also oppose proposals empowering our adversaries, such as the Iran Nuclear Deal.

Following the October 7th attacks, our partnership with Israel grew stronger. I supported the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act to provide additional funding for military personnel, weapons procurement, and resources for the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Iron Beam. Unfortunately, House Democrats blocked this legislation.

In April 2024, I supported the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act, which included provisions to:

• Support Israel's defense against Iran and its proxies;

• Reimburse U.S. military operations in response to recent attacks;

• Replenish the Iron Dome, Iron Beam, and David’s Sling defense systems;

• Support the procurement of advanced weapons systems, defense articles, and services through the Foreign Military Financing Program;

• Enhance the production and development of artillery and critical munitions;

• Allow flexibility for transferring defense articles to Israel from U.S. stockpiles; and

• Prohibit funds from going to the pro-Hamas United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA).

I have also championed a resolution reaffirming Israel’s right to exist, the U.S.-Israel International Development Cooperation Act, the U.S.-Israel Partnership and Abraham Accords Enhancement Act, Solidify Iran Sanctions Act, and resolutions condemning rape and sexual violence by Hamas and calling on Hamas to release all hostages from October 7th.

I will always support our greatest ally, Israel, as its people courageously fight for their right to exist.