Congressman Sires Supports United States-Israel Security Cooperation

For Immediate Release                                                           Contact: Erica Daughtrey

July 17, 2012                                                                           201-222-2828

Congressman Sires Supports United States-Israel Security Cooperation

Washington, D.C.- Today, Congressman Albio Sires supported the passage of S. 2165, the United States-Israel Enhanced Security Cooperation Act of 2012, in the House of Representatives. The legislation reaffirms the U.S. commitment to Israel's security and expands military and civilian cooperation between the two countries.

“Iran’s pursuit of nuclear weapons continues to threaten Israel and the stability of the entire region.  It is more important than ever that the United States stay committed to working with our long time ally Israel to address common threats,” said Congressman Sires. “The United States must provide all the support we can to ensure Israel’s security.”

Specifically, S.2165 expresses the sense of Congress that the United States should assist in Israel's defense and aid the negotiation of a peaceful settlement to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.  It extends loan guarantees to Israel and permits the continued transfer of surplus defense materials.  The bill also requires the President to submit reports to Congress, including reports regarding Israel’s military edge in the region and Israel’s need for F-35 aircraft.

Congressman Sires is a cosponsor of similar legislation, H.R. 4133, which passed the House of Representatives earlier this year. S. 2165 passed the Senate by voice vote on June 29, 2012 and now awaits the President’s signature in order to become law. 

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