Herzog tells Congress that Israel is ‘grateful to no end’ for US friendship

WASHINGTON — President Isaac Herzog opens his address to Congress by reflecting on his time living in New York City, where he discovered the depth of the “bond forged between the people of the United States and the people of Israel.”

“How the nations we built overcame loss. How deeply our stories complement each other’s. How far we have all come, together,” says Herzog.

Turning to House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, Herzog says his address to the Knesset in May “honored the Israeli people,” adding: “Your sincere expression of friendship on behalf of the United States of America truly resonated with the Israelis,” says Herzog.

He also thanks Vice President Kamala Harris: “Your stirring remarks at the Israeli Embassy’s Independence Day reception a few weeks ago reflect both yours and President Biden’s decades-long, ironclad friendship with Israel.” He then expresses thanks to former House speaker Nancy Pelosi, Senator Chuck Schumer and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, and House Minority Leader Congressman Hakeem Jeffries.

Herzog says his “soul is overflowing with pride and joy. The people of Israel are grateful to no end for the ancient promise fulfilled and for the friendship we have formed.”

Herzog entered the chamber to rapturous applause as legislators rise. Accompanied by a bipartisan group of lawmakers, he shook hands as he moved toward the dais.