Rep. Takano and Thirty Seven Members of Congress Travel to Israel and Palestinian Territories

Washington DC – Rep. Mark Takano will accompany House Democratic Whip Steny H. Hoyer, who will serve as the senior Member of a group of 37 House Democrats visiting Israel and the West Bank from August 5th to 11th to learn more about issues critical to the U.S.-Israel relationship and international security.

 

“The Israeli and Palestinian governments restarting peace talks has brought a renewed a sense of hope for a long term agreement,” said Representative Takano. “I look forward to expanding my knowledge of the region's culture and to meeting with government officials from both Israel and Palestine. I hope that each party comes to the negotiating table committed to finding peace.”

 

“As Israelis and Palestinians embark on a new round of negotiations, I look forward to visiting the region to send a message of support for a peaceful two-state solution and to observe the security situation on the ground,” stated Whip Hoyer. “This trip is an important opportunity for Members of Congress to meet with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, receive briefings from government and military officials, and gain a deeper understanding of American interests in a changing Middle East.  Our visit will reaffirm the close relationship between the United States and Israel and reflect the strong support for Israel among those serving in Congress in its quest for security and peace.”

 

Representative Hoyer, Representative Takano and the rest of the delegation will meet with Israeli and Palestinian government officials, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. They will also meet with Ambassador Dan Shapiro and military officials, and they will visit important historical and cultural sites, including the Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial.

 

The trip is organized by the American Israel Education Foundation, an independent, nonprofit charitable organization.