WASHINGTON, D.C. — Today, September 23, 2021, U.S. Congressman Josh Gottheimer helped pass a bipartisan bill to support the Iron Dome missile defense system, which the United States developed with Israel to help save innocent lives and protect from incoming terrorist rockets.

During the debate of the bill, Gottheimer delivered the following remarks on the House floor:

“Mr. Speaker. I rise in support of critical legislation to support our key ally, Israel, and the Iron Dome technology we worked with them to develop for 73 years, the United States and Israel have fostered and strengthened a remarkable relationship, with our shared values of freedom and democracy. Israel’s national security is key to America’s national security and to our fight against terror. Terrorists in Gaza, including Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad fired more than 4,500 rockets at innocent civilians. We thank god each day for the Iron Dome which intercepted 90% of the incoming rockets, saving countless lives. Unfortunately, some of my colleagues recently used support for this defense system as a political football. They threatened to shut down the federal government, put at risk hurricane disaster relief and help for Afghani refugees all because of support of Iron Dome. It was outrageous but we have a chance to pass this Act. Let’s pass this bill and support the Iron Dome and support the U.S.. — Israel relationship. The Senate should take up this stand-alone measure. We must protect our ally, the only democracy in the middle east. Our national security is on the line. Thank you and I yield back.”

Watch Gottheimer’s remarks on the House floor here.

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