The U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy arrived for a two-day visit to Israel, leading a bipartisan congressional delegation of twenty lawmakers. In a historic address at the Knesset on May 1, 2023, McCarthy vowed to strengthen the ties between the two legislative bodies, and he hailed the strong relations between the U.S. and Israel.

The House Speaker opened his speech, noting that it was an honor to join Israeli dignitaries and lawmakers in Jerusalem, in the Eternal Capital of Israel. He emphasized that the land of Israel is “the birthplace of the Jewish people,” adding that the Jews never stopped praying to return to their ancestral home after being forcibly exiled from it.

“Israel’s rebirth is nothing less than a modern miracle and I thank you for it. The source of that miracle is the people of Israel. In those dark days, thousands of years ago, the Jewish people were scattered from Israel. The prophet Isaiah predicted a brighter future to come. Inspired by God, he shared His command, ‘Arise, shine, for thy light is come.’”

Speaker McCarthy praised Israel as a thriving democracy in the Middle East. He highlighted the progress that the Israeli economy has made over the years, moving from a country that once relied on rationing food and oil to becoming the fourth ranked best performing economy among developing nations.

“The story of Israel is a story of survival against the perils of war and terrorism. It is a story of pioneers fulfilling a sacred promise inspired by a commitment to freedom, to family, and to faith in God. It is a story of hope that continues to inspire millions worldwide,” he continued.

“My friends, today, 75 years after declaring independence, Israel’s light shines brighter than ever before,” McCarthy added. “America is grateful for our friendship with Israel. We are a better nation because of it, and we must never shy away from defending it. We have come so far in 75 years, but the promise of years ahead is just as compelling. I believe the best days for Israel and our unbreakable bond are ahead of us,” stated McCarthy. (For the full speech, visit All Israel News, May 1, 2023)