WC Wisconsin News

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Congressman Derrick Van Orden (WI-03) delivered a powerful speech on the House Floor today in support of H.R. 7217, a bill aimed at providing emergency supplemental funds for Israel. The funding is a response to the horrific attacks carried out by Hamas on October 7th, 2024.

Van Orden began his remarks by expressing his agreement with a colleague, acknowledging the connection between the recent attacks and what he described as "the incredible amount of strategic weakness the Biden administration has shown." He drew a parallel between the actions of Putin in Ukraine and the aggression displayed by Hamas in Israel.

Having personally witnessed the aftermath of the attacks during a visit to Israel, Van Orden, a retired Navy SEAL combat medic, was deeply affected. He emphasized the significance of the ceasefire that had been in place on October 6th, which was broken by Hamas, leading to the resumption of violence.

Drawing on his military background, Van Orden highlighted the distinction between the conflicts in Ukraine and Israel. While he characterized Putin as a "war criminal" driven by territorial gains, he described Hamas as a group with a far more sinister agenda. He stated, "Hamas is a group of savages that are after the utter destruction of the Jews as a people."

Van Orden also pointed out that there have been instances of antisemitic remarks made by members of the opposing party, leading to censure on the House floor. He condemned these remarks and pledged his unwavering support for the Jewish people, stating, "I stand with the Jewish people now. I will stand with them from the beginning to the end so the river to the sea never takes place."

In conclusion, Van Orden yielded back his remaining time, having passionately expressed his support for providing emergency supplemental funds for Israel and his commitment to standing with the Jewish people in the face of aggression.

The speech by Congressman Derrick Van Orden on the House Floor shed light on the need to provide emergency supplemental funds for Israel following the attacks by Hamas. Van Orden's military background and firsthand observations in Israel lent credibility to his impassioned plea for support.