The Terrorist Attack on Israel

On Saturday, October 7th, Hamas launched an unprecedented assault on the people of Israel that resulted in over 1,400 deaths, including at least 32 Americans. It is also believed that over 250 hostages have been taken by Hamas, with 10 Americans still unaccounted for.

On October 10th, I joined a bipartisan resolution in support of Israel and condemning the horrific attacks perpetrated by Hamas. With Speaker Johnson now presiding, the House passed this important resolution last night by a vote of 412 to 10. I was glad to see such a strong bipartisan vote in the House because it demonstrates the strength and resolve of American support for Israel.

Standing with Israel, Cutting Off Funding for Hamas & Hezbollah

In response to these atrocities, on October 11th, I reintroduced the The No U.S. Financing for Iran Act. This legislation would effectively block the Iranian Government from the U.S. financial system. Additionally, this measure would prevent the Export-Import Bank as well as the International Monetary Fund (IMF) from financing projects associated with the Government of Iran.

According to the State Department’s 2021 Country Reports on Terrorism, Iran remains the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism. Iran supports proxy elements across the Middle East, including Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, by providing funding as well as weapons and training.

The No U.S. Financing for Iran Act the cuts off the Iranian regimes ability to use our financial system while protecting American taxpayers from supporting the terrorism Iran funds throughout the Middle East and across the globe.

I recently discussed this important legislation and the war in Israel with ABC 57. You can watch the conversation below and read all four pages of the No U.S. Financing for Iran Act here.

Making Your Voice Heard

With over 7,000 rockets being launched at Israel and concerns rising across the Middle East, I wanted to reach out directly to residents along the Lakeshore and across Southwest Michigan. 

On Tuesday, I sent out a survey to constituents that asked the following: Do you support additional aid to Israel? Below are the results from the survey. If you did not receive the survey but would like to participate in future opportunities, please visit Huizenga.House.Gov and send me an email or call my office in Washington.

A Safe Return

Last week, my family and I were happy to share the positive news that my son Adrian was able to safely leave Israel thanks to the efforts of Congressman Cory Mills and his team. Below is our discussion on Fox & Friends about Adrian's journey and the need for the State Department to improve services for Americans abroad. 

Unfortunately, Adrian's story is not unique. Thousands of Americans living in Israel have struggled to find a way out safely. The federal government must get better at helping Americans leave areas when conflict breaks out. One key element is staying aware and checking with the State Department on travel to foreign countries.

Another aspect is reaching out to your Member of Congress if something happens and you need assistance while you are traveling outside the United States. It is imperative that the Biden Administration and future Administrations develop some type of rapid response strategy to contact Americans and provide more timely assistance to our citizens abroad when a crisis unfolds. 

Thank you for reading this edition of the Huddle! If you or someone you know need assistance with a federal agency, please reach out to my office!