WASHINGTON – Top Appropriations Committee Republican Kay Granger (R-TX) released the following statement after Israel and the United Arab Emirates agreed to a full normalization of diplomatic relations, following vigorous diplomatic outreach by the Trump Administration.

"The road to achieving peace in the Middle East – particularly between Israel and its neighbors – has been a difficult one, but today’s agreement between Israel and the United Arab Emirates is a remarkable breakthrough that will unite two of America’s most reliable and capable partners.

"Shortly before today’s historic announcement, I discussed solutions with those on the frontlines of the Middle East peace process, including Trump Administration officials and Israel’s Minister of Foreign Affairs Gabi Ashkenazi. As I told Minister Ashkenazi, America’s support of Israel has remained steadfast and strongly bipartisan, even in an era of political partisanship, and our nations’ special bond reflects our countries’ shared values, virtues, and security interests.

“As the top Republican on the House Appropriations Committee, I am proud to work with President Trump and our military to support U.S.-Israeli strategic cooperation, including through recently providing $3.3 billion in foreign military financing and $500 million to jointly develop missiles crucial to preserving Israel’s security.

"I applaud the bold vision of the Trump Administration and the bravery of the leaders of Israel and the United Arab Emirates to embark upon today’s normalization agreement. I hope that this step forward for peace is the first in a series of agreements that eventually ends over seven decades of hostilities in the Middle East, unlocking the region’s great potential."