WASHINGTON, DC – Congress today approved a $225 million emergency supplemental funding bill to replenish Israel’s Iron Dome Anti-Missile Defense System. Following the vote, U.S. Congressman David N. Cicilline (D-RI), a member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee who, earlier this week, helped advance legislation out of the House Foreign Affairs Committee to authorize the President to provide assistance to Israel for the procurement, maintenance, and sustainment of the Iron Dome Anti-Missile Defense System, released the following statement:

“Israel has the right to defend itself against any assault on its sovereignty and its people. This emergency funding will help replenish Israel’s Iron Dome to safeguard the Israeli people from Hamas rocket fire. Since the beginning of the escalation of violence the Iron Dome has intercepted hundreds of Hamas rockets and saved the lives of innocent civilians. Tonight’s vote sends a clear message that the U.S. stands with our ally Israel and will continue to meet their military needs. We must also recognize that a permanent ceasefire through diplomacy is in the best interest of the Israeli and Palestinian people. As Secretary Kerry and his international counterparts work on a ceasefire or political solution, we will continue to ensure that Israel has the ability to defend itself.”