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This week, we all watched in horror as the State of Israel came under unprovoked attack from a terrorist group that is celebrating the beheading of infants, raping of women, and cold-blooded murder of hundreds. The death count is now in the thousands, and 27 Americans are among them. This attack is the largest single-day mass murder of Jews since the Holocaust.

I stand with Israel as they work to defend themselves against these atrocities. As soon as we have elected a Speaker, one of our first priorities should include aid to Israel. But we also need to consider what led to this tragedy. Our disastrous Afghanistan withdrawal in 2021 demonstrated great weakness and left $512 billion in weapons that have made it into the hands of multiple terrorist groups.

Furthermore, just weeks ago, President Biden paid Iran $6 billion for the release of five American hostages. President Trump brought 58 hostages home without paying a dime. Even if Iran can’t currently access the $6 billion Biden gave them, they can access the $80 billion in oil exports they have earned since Biden lifted Trump’s economic sanctions. When Biden projects weakness on the world’s stage, terrorists see an opportunity.

In May, I had the privilege of visiting Israel for the first time and was amazed by the history, the scenery, and most of all, the people. The Holy Land is filled with resilient citizens who love their faith, honor their history, and are ready to fight for their country. All the Israeli Defense Force members we met were passionately dedicated to protecting their homeland, even under constant threat of rocket fire. They now face much greater risks.

My wife Heather and I are heartbroken for the families who are now missing, or have lost, loved ones. I hope you will join us in praying for the leaders, defense forces, and families in Israel. Genesis 12:3 promises us that those who bless Israel will be blessed, and those who curse Israel will be cursed.

My office is standing by to assist Alabamians who need help following these terrorist attacks. If you or someone you know needs help, you can reach my office by calling 202-225-2901 or going to barrymoore.house.gov. If you need to reach the U.S. Embassy in Israel, you can call 1-833-890-9595.