Charleston Leader

WASHINGTON, D.C. — U.S. Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.), vice chairman of the Senate Republican Conference, delivered remarks on the Senate floor in strong support of Israel amid its ongoing conflict with Hamas.

Earlier today, Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed Congress, detailing the challenges Israel has faced since the October 7, 2023 terrorist attack. Vice President Kamala Harris and several Congressional Democrats boycotted the speech.

Senator Capito's prepared remarks emphasized unwavering U.S. support for Israel:

“Earlier today, Members of Congress had the distinct honor of hearing from Benjamin Netanyahu, the prime minister of Israel, who is the leader of one of our most steadfast allies in an unprecedented time of strife for his country,” she stated.

Capito highlighted Netanyahu’s address as a depiction of Israel's current reality and underscored his call for bringing hostages home and ensuring peace and security in the Middle East. She expressed disappointment over some Democratic colleagues' absence during Netanyahu’s address.

“For a time, her seat was simply up for grabs," Capito said regarding Vice President Harris's absence. "But unfortunately, the public debate over the vice president’s absence is not the message we should be sending to the world.”

She recalled that on October 7th, 2023, Hamas launched an unprovoked attack on Israel resulting in significant casualties and hostages. “Hamas has proven themselves to be a violent terrorist organization that continues to hide underneath schools and hospitals,” she remarked.

Capito also mentioned recent attacks by Hezbollah and Houthis against Israel: “Just last week, Hezbollah fired 65 rockets into Israel... It is clear that Israel needs our support now more than ever.”

Reflecting on historical ties between the U.S. and Israel, Capito stressed: “The United States was the first country to recognize the state of Israel... They have long been our most stable ally and partner in the Middle East.”

She criticized those willing to abandon this relationship: “Yet far too many in our country are willing to abandon our relationship with Israel, starting with the Biden-Harris administration.”

Capito concluded by urging unity in supporting Israel against terrorism: “Standing with Israel should not be an issue that divides us but rather one that unites us in defense of our longtime ally and friend.”

With that statement made clear, she yielded her time on the Senate floor.