Congressman Tom Suozzi (D—Long Island, Queens) recently spoke on the House floor to introduce a bipartisan resolution celebrating the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem. Rep. Francis Rooney (R-FL) joined the resolution as an original cosponsor.

“For centuries, the Jewish people yearned to pray at the Western Wall, the only remaining connection to the Great Temple destroyed in 70 A.D.–a cry that infused their daily prayers. Fifty years ago, in 1967, this mere hope became reality when Jerusalem was finally reunified at the conclusion of the Six-Day War.

“We share the joy of our brothers and sisters as we celebrate this special milestone, and as we continue to strive for a two-state solution between Israelis and Palestinians. In a world of increasing instability, our enduring relationship with Israel has never been more vital, and I am honored to stand with our close friend and ally,” said Congressman Suozzi in his speech.

“Jerusalem represents the heart and soul of the Jewish people, and its reunification after almost 2,000 years of division remains an inspiration to all. As a divided city, Israeli citizens of all faiths as well as Jews of all nationalities were denied access to holy sites in eastern Jerusalem, including the Old City, in which the Western Wall is located. I am honored to join in celebration of the 50th anniversary of that reunification, and will continue to support our friends and allies in Israel,” said. Rep. Rooney.

Later in the day, Congressman Suozzi spoke at a bipartisan luncheon in front of leaders from our nation’s Jewish community to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jerusalem. “It was an honor to join so many of my friends from the Jewish community both in my district and around the country to celebrate this momentous occasion. The Jewish people fought for almost 2,000 years to finally be able to pray at the Western Wall. This event is the first of its kind here on Capitol Hill, so today is a special milestone for Jews and for people of all faiths who can visit and pray in this ancient city peacefully,” said Congressman Suozzi.

“Congressman Suozzi was integral to this event taking place, and the resolution he introduced will ensure all religions have access to these holy sites. Today showed the true bipartisanship of Congress combined with the unity of the Jewish community that was present at this event,” said Martin Oliner, co-president of the Religious Zionists of America, who was a driving force behind gathering support for Congressman Suozzi’s resolution.

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