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VIDEO RELEASE: Schneider: “America’s commitment to Iron Dome is rock solid”

September 23, 2021

WASHINGTONCongressman Brad Schneider (IL-10) delivered the following remarks from the House floor ahead of the House vote on HR 5323, funding $1 billion for Israel's Iron Dome defense system [VIDEO]:

"Thirty years ago, in the Gulf War, Israel endured 31 scud missile strikes from Iraq. Its population effectively defenseless.

"Fifteen years ago, in the Second Lebanon War, Hezbollah fired 4,000 rockets at Israel in 34 days, Again, Israel had no active defense.

"Five months ago, over the course of just 11 days, Hamas and other terrorist groups in Gaza launched more than 4,500 rockets at Israel. But, because of Iron Dome, Israel is no longer defenseless. Iron Dome has saved lives—both Israeli and Palestinian.

"America's commitment to Iron Dome is rock solid. Today's vote will make that clear—in spite that some on both sides of the aisle who seek to make Israel and our unyielding support of Israel a wedge issue.

"There are so many reasons for hope in the region. Israel has a new government with the broadest imaginable governing coalition, including Arab parties. Israelis and Palestinians are talking to each other again. The Abraham Accords are changing the dynamic between Israel and her Arab neighbors. Progress in all these areas starts with and depends on security. And security starts with and relies on Iron Dome funding.

"I urge my colleagues to join me in supporting this critical funding and hope the Senate will take this up immediately.

"I yield the remainder of my time."

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