Washington, D.C. – Congressman Darin LaHood (IL-16) released the following statement on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's Address to a Joint Session of Congress and the decision by members of the Illinois delegation to boycott the address:
"With hostages still in Hamas captivity, Israel has the right to continue its defense in response to the horrific terrorist attack on October 7th. As our strongest ally in the Middle East and the only democracy in the region, we have an obligation to advocate for a peaceful solution and support Israel.
"In the months since October, and today in front of the U.S. Capitol, we've witnessed vile antisemitic hate and unacceptable violence against Jewish Americans. The decision by Vice President Kamala Harris not to preside over the Joint Session and the boycott of the address by members of the Illinois delegation disrespects the institution of Congress, undermines America's global leadership, appeases our adversaries, and weakens one of our strongest alliances.
"As a member of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, I will continue to work with my colleagues to return every hostage, put an end to Hamas terrorism, and support our allies in the Middle East."
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