Texas Gov. Greg Abbott visits Israel to reinforce support.
Texas Governor Greg Abbott Reaffirms Support for Israel During Visit
Texas Governor Greg Abbott embarked on an overnight journey to Israel, arriving on Thursday to show unwavering support for the Middle Eastern nation and its people.
Joined by Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt, Gov. Abbott had the privilege of meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in Jerusalem. This marks Gov. Abbott’s third visit to Israel since assuming office in 2015.
“There is a deep, enduring bond between Texas and Israel, with the blessings of freedom and burdens of vigilance embedded in the histories of both our people,” Gov. Abbott expressed in a statement.
The trip comes at a critical time, as more than 1,400 Israelis, including innocent children, have lost their lives and over 4,500 have been injured due to the brutal terrorist group Hamas’ surprise attack on a music festival on October 7.
“Unfortunately, freedom in Israel has never been more threatened than it is right now, and the people of Israel are fiercely fighting to defend it. During this trip, I hope to gain a deeper understanding of this horrific war and explore ways in which Texas can continue to support Israel in their battle against brutal terrorist organizations like Hamas,” Gov. Abbott emphasized.
The Israel Consulate’s office in Houston, Texas, collaborated with the governors’ offices to coordinate this visit, as confirmed by Humberto Cruz, the consulate’s academic affairs coordinator. The two Republican governors are expected to spend approximately 12 hours in Israel.
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“It was an honor to meet with Prime Minister Netanyahu in Jerusalem today. I am here in Israel to reaffirm Texas’ unwavering support as the Israeli people defend their nation against Hamas’ heinous acts of war,” Gov. Abbott shared on X.
“I’m in Israel with Governor Abbott to show our support and discuss partnership with the Jewish people as they rebuild. Prime Minister Netanyahu, Oklahomans are with you,” Gov. Stitt expressed on X.
During their solidarity mission, the governors had the opportunity to meet with various Israeli officials, as well as victims and families affected by the war.
“Today, I visited with families displaced by Hamas’ acts of war in Jerusalem. Despite the ongoing Israel-Hamas war, the resilience of the Israeli people shines through. Texas is proud to stand with them,” Gov. Abbott shared on X.
Actions Taken in Texas
Gov. Abbott has implemented several measures to enhance security and combat antisemitism across the state following the terrorist attack on innocent civilians in Israel.
For nearly a week after the initial attack, the governor ordered all Texas flags to be lowered to half-staff in honor of the lives lost.
On October 9, Gov. Abbott issued an executive order directing all state agencies not to purchase goods produced or exported from the Gaza Strip or from any organization affiliated with Hamas. (pdf) Additionally, he allocated an extra $4 million in funding from the Public Safety Office to enhance security at Jewish organizations, including synagogues and schools throughout the state.
“The State of Texas condemns these heinous acts of violence against Israel and its people by ruthless terrorists, and we stand ready to offer our complete support to the Israeli and Jewish communities,” Gov. Abbott stated in a statement.
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The governors’ visit also included discussions on potential areas of collaboration and mutual benefit between Israel and the states of Texas and Oklahoma. Topics addressed ranged from technology and innovation to energy and agriculture.
“Israel has long been a global leader in technology and innovation, and there are tremendous opportunities for Texas to strengthen our ties in these fields. We hope to explore partnerships that will bring mutual economic growth and prosperity for both Israel and Texas,” Gov. Abbott explained.
The Israel-Texas partnership has already borne fruit in the past, with Israeli companies investing heavily in the Texas economy. According to the Texas-Israeli Trade Alliance, Israeli businesses have created over 9,000 jobs in Texas, with a direct economic impact of $7 billion.
“Texas and Israel share common values and a commitment to freedom, democracy, and innovation. This visit allows us to not only reaffirm our unwavering support for Israel but also explore areas where our two regions can collaborate and benefit from each other’s strengths,” Gov. Abbott said.
The visit served as a platform for Governor Abbott to reiterate his administration’s commitment to combating anti-Semitism and discrimination, both domestically and internationally. As part of this effort, the governor recently signed legislation that prohibits the state of Texas from contracting with companies that boycott Israel or engage in discriminatory practices against the country.
“Texas stands firmly against anti-Semitism and discrimination in all its forms. We will not tolerate any efforts to marginalize or harm the Jewish people or the State of Israel. Our friendship with Israel is rooted in shared values and a deep respect for the contributions made by the Jewish community here in Texas,” Gov. Abbott emphasized.
Governor Abbott’s visit to Israel reinforces the strong bond between Texas and Israel, highlighting the mutual support and collaboration between the two. It sends a powerful message of solidarity to the Israeli people and reaffirms Texas’ commitment to standing shoulder-to-shoulder with Israel in the face of adversity.
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