Rep. Sykes Travels To Israel, Meets With Top Israeli And Palestinian Leaders
AKRON, OH — U.S. Representative Emilia Sykes (OH-13), as part of a group of 24 House Democrats led by Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Rep. Steny Hoyer, traveled to Israel to gain a firsthand understanding of challenges in the region, as well as bolster one of America’s most strategic and impactful international relationships.
While in Israel and the West Bank, the delegation held high-level meetings with Israeli and Palestinian leaders, including Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and former Prime Minister and current Opposition Leader Yair Lapi; met with various advocates and stakeholders; and toured areas important to the security of the region. The delegation explored a variety of pressing issues, including the effort to prevent Iran from becoming nuclear-capable, prospects for a two-state solution, the ongoing judicial reform debate, combatting antisemitism, US-Israeli trade relations, settlement expansion and the implementation of the Abraham Accords.
“Israel is one of our most important strategic allies, so I was pleased to participate in this Congressional delegation to discuss firsthand how our two countries can strengthen this alliance and promote our shared values of freedom, democracy, and peace,” said Rep. Sykes. “It is more important than ever to foster cooperation between America and Israel to ensure our nation is prepared to tackle the complex security challenges of an increasingly globalized world. I look forward to continuing my work to enhance the security of the United States and Israel, and to ensure all Jewish people across the globe can live safely and peacefully.”
“Representative Sykes has been and continues to be an ally for the Jewish community of the 13th district. With antisemitism increasing, we need our representatives to understand the local and the global threats facing our community. We are fortunate to have a leader in Representative Sykes who listens, cares, and acts upon the needs of all of her constituents,” said Rabbi Josh Brown, Temple Israel.
“We are thrilled that Representative Sykes made the time to participate with this delegation, which is consistent with her long-standing support and understanding of issues of concern to the Akron Jewish community. The political dynamics in Israel are complex, and there is no substitute for visiting. We look forward to hearing about her experiences there,” said Daniel Blain, CEO, JewishAkron.
Since 1996, Ohio’s exports to Israel have totaled more than $5.8 billion, and Israel now ranks as Ohio’s 26th leading trade partner. Additionally, Ohio ranks 13th among all states in exports to Israel, and in 2022, Ohio exported more than $284 million worth of manufactured goods to Israel. Notably, the top commodity sectors driving this trade were machinery and mechanical appliances, accounting for over 30.1 percent of the total exports, followed by Stone, Glass, Metals, and Pearls at 25 percent, and chemicals, plastics, rubber, and leather products at nearly 12 percent. The manufacturing capacity across Northeast Ohio plays a pivotal role in fueling much of this trade, creating opportunities for local businesses and workers. Akron is a leader in rubber and polymer science, contributing significantly to the chemicals, plastics, rubber, and leather products sector.
“Ohio is unwavering in its commitment to combating antisemitism in all its forms and prioritizing the humanity of all people, globally. This commitment springs from our shared conviction that fostering a society free from hatred and discrimination is essential for peace, harmony, and progress,” continued Rep. Sykes. “We are resolute in standing against the toxic forces that seek to undermine the dignity and rights of individuals based on their faith or ethnicity. Ohio's partnership with Israel transcends trade figures; it's a testament to the value we place on human connections, combating hate, and advancing shared goals. Our commitment to empowering people, prioritizing inclusivity, and standing against antisemitism not only enriches our global relationships, but also shapes a better world.”
Pictured from Left to Right (Howard Friedman, Hilary Smith Kapner, Robert Cohen, Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Rep. Steny Hoyer, Michael L. Tuchin, Yehuda Neuberger, Rep. Andrea Salinas, Rep. Jill Tokuda, Rep. Don Davis, Rep. Becca Balint, Rep. Shri Thanadar, Rep. Greg Landsman, Rep. Jared Moskowitz, Rep. Haley Stevens, Rep. Brittany Pettersen, Rep. Emilia Sykes, Rep.Wiley Nickel, Rep. Pat Ryan, Rep. Brad Schneider, Rep. Eric Sorensen, Rep. Yadira Caraveo, Rep. Hillary Scholten, Rep. Jasmine Crockett, Rep. Morgan McGarvey, Rep. Chris Deluzio, Rep. Dan Goldman)