Greenville Reporter

GREENVILLE, N.C. — U.S. Congressman Don Davis (NC-01) wrapped up a week-long U.S. congressional delegation visit to Israel, one of America’s closest allies in the Middle East. Throughout his stay, Congressman Davis engaged in discussions focusing on the complex geopolitics of the Middle East, highlighting the need for diplomatic progress and security collaboration. The central focus of his mission: to foster greater collaboration and understanding in a region often characterized by turmoil and conflict.

Throughout the visit, Congressman Davis delved into national security matters with key members of Israel’s leadership, including Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, President Isaac Herzog, Knesset members, Israel Defense Forces, and national security experts. Congressman Davis also met with Prime Minister of the Palestinian Authority, Mohammad Shtayyeh.

Congressman Davis learned firsthand about Iran's destabilization efforts while touring the northern border. Iran continues to support Hezbollah in Lebanon, providing financial aid, weapons, and training while backing extreme actors like Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad.

Conversations also centered on normalizing relations between Israel and Saudi Arabia and the potential mutual benefits, including regional stability, as both are key players in the Middle East.

However, the Abraham Accords, a symbol of normalization and peace, took center stage in Congressman Davis’ dialogues. These Accords, signifying a historic shift in diplomatic relations, were highlighted for their implications, emphasizing the need for continued efforts toward fostering cooperation and stability. During this trip, Congressman Davis joined the Congressional Abraham Accords Caucus chaired by Congressman Brad Schneider of Illinois.

Security assistance emerged as a recurring theme, including defense programs like the Iron Dome system. The effectiveness of the Iron Dome resonated in the stories shared by residents living on the Gaza border, a daily life shadowed by the constant threat of missile strikes, leaving them with mere seconds to find safety. These personal stories underscored the importance of the air defense system.

“Instability and extremism continue to plague the Middle East. Regional stability and preserving democracy are in the American people's best interest. We must work to no end towards peace,” said Congressman Davis.  “The United States must continue to stand firmly in support of building democracies and cooperating with our allies.”

Reflecting on his visit, Congressman Davis stated, “Our meetings this past week have only strengthened my resolve to work towards a stable, prosperous, and peaceful region.”

As he departed, Congressman Davis emphasized that diplomacy, security, and the human experience are tightly woven strands in the fabric of regional progress. He reiterated the need for a comprehensive approach that embraces these diverse elements as a way forward. What is the visit's legacy? A heightened sense of optimism for the future of the Middle East.

In his first term, Congressman Davis serves as the Vice Ranking Member of the U.S. House Armed Services Subcommittee on Readiness. 

Original source can be found here.