Strengthening Our Bond with Israel

WASHINGTON -- Today, U.S. Representative Mike Quigley (IL-05) spoke to his colleagues on the House floor on the importance of the United States’ relationship with Israel as an ally and friend.

Below is a video and transcript of the speech.

Mr. Speaker,
 
Last week, I had the honor and privilege of traveling to Israel for the fourth time.
 
Congressman Schiff and I joined the U.S. Ambassador to Israel, Dan Shapiro, at Yad Va-shem in Jerusalem for Yom Ha-sho-ah, or Holocaust Remembrance Day
 
We watched six survivors, each representing one million innocent civilians killed, light the torch and share their stories of loss and survival.
 
It was one of the most powerful, moving and emotional moments of my life.
 
One cannot truly empathize or understand the devastation of the holocaust until you have stood in Dachau and Auschwitz,
 
Or heard stories from survivors themselves that seem too horrific to be real.
 
The United State's relationship with Israel is more important than ever. No matter what other threats we face, the United States and Israel must remain the closest of friends and continue to work together to ensure the security of our trusted ally.
 
Thank you and I yield back.