Rep. Schneider on Benny Gantz’s Visit to Capitol Hill, Commends Leaders Schumer, McConnell and Jeffries for Meeting with the Israeli Cabinet Minister

WASHINGTON— Today, Rep. Brad Schneider (IL-10) released the following statement on Minister Gantz’s visit to Washington, D.C. Gantz is meeting with top Biden Administration Officials, Senate Leaders Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell, and House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Unfortunately, Speaker Johnson refused to meet with this crucial member of the Israeli war cabinet. 

“First, I’d like to commend Senate Leaders Chuck Schumer and Mitch McConnell as well as House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries for welcoming our friend and ally Benny Gantz to Washington to discuss the ongoing war in the Middle East, and how the U.S. can support Israel’s efforts to rescue its hostages held in Gaza, dismantle Hamas, and best deliver aid to Palestinian civilians. 

“Unfortunately, Speaker Johnson refused to take a meeting with this senior Israeli official at one of the most consequential points during this entire conflict. I’m deeply disappointed by the Speaker’s decision:  rather than taking the time to learn more about Israel’s war efforts in their existential fight against Hamas, Speaker Johnson is choosing to play partisan politics. 

“Our allies cannot wait any longer. It’s time the Republican Speaker put political gamesmanship aside and bring the Senate-passed essential national security package to the House floor immediately.” 

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