Today, as President Biden delivers a speech outlining his foreign policy legacy at the State Department, Democratic Majority for Israel President & CEO Mark Mellman released the following statement:
“President Joe Biden’s foreign policy reflects his lifelong dedication to democracy, American global leadership, and the enduring bond between the United States and Israel. As President, Joe Biden not only demonstrated unwavering support for our most important allies but also set a new standard for American leadership on the world stage.
“A career-long champion of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship, President Biden led the most pro-Israel administration in U.S. history.
“President Biden responded with unparalleled resolve to the October 7th, 2023, atrocities perpetrated by Hamas. He delivered the strongest pro-Israel speech ever given by an American president, unequivocally affirming Israel’s right to defend itself. In a powerful demonstration of solidarity with the Israeli people, he made history by becoming the first sitting U.S. president to visit Israel during wartime, stating, as he had previously, ‘You don’t have to be a Jew to be a Zionist.’
“Under President Biden’s leadership, the United States provided unprecedented levels of military aid to Israel, ensuring it had the resources to defeat Hamas and defend against Iran and its proxies, including Hamas and Palestinian Jihad in Gaza, Hezbollah in Lebanon, the Houthis in Yemen, and terrorist groups in Syria.
“Altogether, the Biden-Harris Administration has provided Israel more than $22 billion to support its wartime efforts since the barbaric October 7th attacks.
“President Biden twice organized and led an unparalleled international coalition to successfully protect Israel from Iranian attacks. Only once before had an American president ordered U.S. military assets into battle to defend Israel, and never at the scale and scope President Biden orchestrated.
“President Biden never forgot that while defending Israel politically and militarily is vital, peace is the ultimate goal. His tireless efforts to expand upon the Abraham Accords furthered regional peace and cooperation, with milestones including Saudi Arabia’s decision to open its airspace to Israeli flights, the U.S.-facilitated maritime border agreement between Israel and Lebanon, and a still tenuous, but hopefully lasting, ceasefire with Hezbollah based firmly on the terrorist group’s withdrawal from Southern Lebanon.
“Beyond his historic support for Israel, President Biden reaffirmed the United States’ role as a champion of democracy and defender of global stability.
“Just last week, President Biden unveiled a $500 million security package for Ukraine, comprised of air defense missiles, air-to-ground munitions, and critical equipment to support Ukraine’s deployment of F-16 fighter jets. His unwavering support for Ukraine in the face of Russian aggression exemplifies his commitment to democratic nations defending themselves against authoritarian threats. By rallying allies, providing critical military aid, and strengthening NATO, President Biden has restored America’s reputation as a trusted global leader.
“As we reflect on President Biden’s tenure, we honor his enduring legacy of leadership, his unwavering belief in the power of democracy, and his steadfast commitment to the success of America’s allies. Democratic Majority for Israel extends its deepest gratitude to President Biden for his remarkable service to our nation and to the world.”
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