Congressman Scott DesJarlais, M.D. (TN-04) released the following statement after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu addressed a joint session of Congress:

"Israel remains one of our closest allies and a critical partner in the struggle against the myriad threats posed by radical Islam and a nuclear Iran. Therefore, America's commitment to Israel must remain as steadfast as the democratic principles our nations share. We must never allow partisan politics to jeopardize this longstanding friendship and strategic alliance.

"It is my hope the Obama administration will heed the words of Prime Minister Netanyahu and reaffirm our commitment to Israel and our mutual goal of a stable and secure Middle East. This starts with making it clear the United States will not allow Iran to obtain nuclear weapons. A policy of appeasement would only further destabilize the Middle East and embolden Iran's ambitions for regional supremacy. We must remember that a nuclear Iran not only threatens Israel, but all of our partners in the region - especially Sunni Arab states.

"Our friends around the world need to know that the United States will always stand with our allies and against tyranny and oppression. Unfortunately, policies pursued by the Obama administration have weakened our position as a global leader. It is time for President Obama to listen to the legitimate concerns raised by the prime minister and pursue a nuclear agreement that is truly in the best interest of stability and democracy."

Statement from Senator Lamar Alexander:

U.S. Senator Lamar Alexander (R-Tenn.) today released the following statement after attending Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to a joint session of the U.S. Congress:

"Israel is one of our greatest allies, and our relationship is especially critical during these dangerous times in the Middle East. It's important for Congress and the American people to hear from such strong allies, and I was glad the prime minister had a chance to share his views on issues facing both our countries."

From the office of Senator Bob Corker:

U.S. Senator Bob Corker (R-Tenn.), chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's address to a joint meeting of Congress today.

"Prime Minister Netanyahu delivered a very strong speech, dispelled any sense of partisanship and focused on what is one of the greatest national security issues of our time. Israel is a great friend and ally to the United States, and it is important that our relationship remain resilient and unwavering as growing challenges in the Middle East threaten the future and security of both of our nations," Corker said.

As chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, Corker was chosen to be part of a bipartisan group of lawmakers who escorted Netanyahu into the U.S. House of Representatives chamber.

Source:

Office of Congressman DesJarlais

Office of Senator Lamar Alexander

Office of Senator Corker