Miller-Meeks Speaks in Support of Fully Funding the Iron Dome

WASHINGTON, D.C.—Today, September 23rd, 2021, Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks (IA-02) spoke on the floor of the House of Representatives to stress the importance of fully funding the Iron Dome missile defense system.

To watch Miller-Meeks’ speech, click HERE, and read her remarks as prepared for delivery below:

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on the importance of the United States continuing to support our allies, specifically Israel.

Israel has long been a key strategic ally for the United States. Our relationship is mutually beneficial, and it is important that we work to support them whenever we can. That means fully funding the Iron Dome missile defense system must be a top priority of this Congress.

The Iron Dome is a mobile all-weather air defense system designed to intercept and destroy short-range rockets and artillery shells whose trajectory would take them to an Israeli populated area. This system is purely defensive and designed to protect civilians. Innocent bystanders of all ethnicities, nationalities, and faiths rely on the Iron Dome for protection and safety.

When terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah fire thousands of rockets into Israel, the Iron Dome system quickly destroys them and saves countless lives.

Unfortunately, the majority wants to play games with this vital program.

Earlier this week, the funding for the Iron Dome was stripped from the majority’s continuing resolution amid protests from progressive members. For years, the United States has consistently funded the Iron Dome on a strong bipartisan basis to help Israel defend itself against rocket attacks from terrorist organizations.

There has never been a situation where military aid for Israel was held up because of objections from members of Congress. 

It is disgraceful that the majority removed the $1 billion in funding for the Iron Dome to appease the far left that seems to have taken over their agenda. Not funding the Iron Dome puts lives at risk for absolutely no reason. And while I appreciate the majority introducing stand-alone legislation to fully fund the system, it should not have to come to this to ensure the safety of our allies.

After a summer that saw two weeks of fighting between Israel and Palestine, it is beyond clear to me that we must support Israel. Israel has long been a strong U.S. ally in a region marked by decades of conflict and turmoil. They are a strong democracy and share our views on many issues.

I am proud to say what many in the majority will not, that I firmly stand in support of Israel and continuing to build our partnership for years to come.

Thank you, I yield back my time.

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