Gov. Greg Abbott arrived in Tel Aviv, Israel on Thursday to visit a medical center and express support for the Israeli people.
The visit gave the Texas governor the chance to speak with those impacted by the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas that began in early October, according to a press release sent to The Dallas Express.
Abbott’s visit was an opportunity for him to garner first-hand knowledge about the crisis and better understand how Texas can support those in need.
The governor noted his intent was also to “reaffirm Texas’ enduring and unwavering support of the State of Israel, the Israeli people, and Israel’s right to self-defense amid acts of war by the brutal terrorist organization Hamas.”
“There is a deep, enduring bond between Texas and Israel, with the blessings of freedom and burdens of vigilance embedded in the histories of both our people,” he Abbott in the release.
“Unfortunately, never has freedom in Israel been more threatened than it is right now — and the people of Israel are vigorously fighting to defend it. I look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of this horrific war and how we can continue to help Israel safeguard their freedom during this trip. Texas stands ready to offer our complete and total support to Israel in their fight against brutal terrorist organizations like Hamas.”
This is the third time Abbott has visited Israel since he was elected governor in 2015, and he was joined on the trip by Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt.
Stitt posted on social media that the governors are in Israel to “show our support and discuss partnerships with the Jewish people as they rebuild.”
This visit was coordinated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Israel and the Consulate General of Israel to the Southwest, according to the news release sent to The Dallas Express.
Since the conflict between Israel and Hamas began following an unprecedented attack by Hamas on October 7, Texas has taken multiple steps to show support for Israel.
Just days after the initial attack, Abbott issued an executive order that restricted Texas agencies from purchasing goods produced in the Gaza Strip or from organizations that have ties to Hamas.
Similarly, Texas purchased $20 million of bonds from Israel to help provide the country with liquid cash, as previously reported by The Dallas Express.
Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced on October 13 that the state would be purchasing the Israeli bonds to “provide them with the financial liquidity needed to respond to the atrocities we’ve all witnessed.”