Israel has every right to defend itself from the escalating hostility of the Iranian-backed terror group known as Hamas. For weeks, buildings in Israel have been completely leveled, rockets have rained down from the skies, and the citizens of Israel have been forced to shelter themselves and their families. Mark Regev, Senior Advisor to Benjamin Netanyahu, gave an in-depth assessment on Fox News on this conflict this past Sunday that you need to watch. This rising hostility towards Israel, and the Jewish community, must be confronted immediately. As a longstanding partner to Israel, the United States must step up, respond, and aid our closest ally in the Middle East.

Sadly, that same hostility has touched the shores of America as well – albeit in different forms. From the halls of Congress, anti-Israel rhetoric persists. One Democrat member recently referred to Israel as an “apartheid state” and others have taken to the floor of the People’s House to air their own grievances on Israel. In New York, the Jewish community came under attack over the past few weeks at local businesses and in the streets. People were hurt, and communities are still reeling today.

This new wave of anti-Semitism comes after unprecedented progress over the last four years under the leadership of President Trump. As you might recall, President Trump, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and Prince Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) signed the Abraham Accords in August of last year. The Abraham Accords help formalize diplomatic relations between the UAE and Israel – effectively ushering in a new era of peace and prosperity in the Middle East. What’s more, the American embassy was officially moved from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem in 2020 – an undeniably powerful statement that’s forever etched in our partnership.

During my time in the People’s House, I have always stood with Israel and the Jewish community. My record directly reflects that, as does my longstanding commitment to speaking up and speaking out on issues that directly affect them. The violence against these sacred communities must end, and we must turn our attention to further building upon our alliance and standing up against anti-Semitic extremism in all forms. In the end, that’s a vital step in the pursuit of a more perfect union.

A Harmful Workplace Mandate

New Scam Alert

I’ve heard from many constituents in the Fifth District about their concerns over phone scams and robocalls, and I have an update you need to pay attention to. Right now, authorities are working to dismantle a new phone scam in which a caller poses as an officer of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and attempts to extort your hard-earned money through the purchasing of gift cards. According to the DEA, these scammers will claim that your name and social security number was used to rent a vehicle that was found at the southern border along with evidence of drug paraphernalia and money laundering. Yes, this is a new tactic that’s being used to coerce you into sending scammers money.

Always remember that agencies like the DEA, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), or even the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) will never call you and demand money, especially in the form of gift cards. You’ll never be solicited for money over the phone and you will never be asked to relay personal identifiable information. Remembering this information can, and will, help you protect yourself and your family.

Quote of The Week

Have a blessed weekend.

Sincerely,