WASHINGTON, D.C. – Recently, Congressman Max Miller (OH-07), alongside Congresswoman Claudia Tenney (NY-24), led a letter to President Biden voicing serious concern about the nomination of former Treasury Secretary Jack Lew to be the U.S. Ambassador to Israel. The letter calls for President Biden to nominate someone who can effectively strengthen and enhance the U.S.-Israel relationship during a critical juncture in diplomatic ties. On Tuesday, the White House formally announced President Biden’s intentions to nominate Mr. Lew.

In the letter, the lawmakers highlight several key areas of concern regarding former Secretary Lew’s nomination. Notably, his involvement in creating the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, has raised questions about his capacity to safeguard American and Israeli national security interests. The letter also calls attention to former Secretary Lew’s support for President Obama’s decision not to veto UNSC Resolution 2334 (2016), which condemned Israeli settlement constructions, and has raised concerns about former Secretary Lew’s alignment with positions that may weaken Israel’s diplomatic standing.

Other cosigners of the letter include House Republican Conference Chairwoman Elise Stefanik (R-NY), Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green (R-TN), Rep. Doug Lamborn (R-CO), Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ), Rep. Carol Miller (R-WV), and Rep. Kat Cammack (R-FL).

“Israel is the forever home of the Jewish people and one of America’s closest democratic allies,” said Congressman Max Miller. “The United States needs an ambassador to Israel who will work to strengthen, not strain, relations between our two countries at this critical juncture. I hope this administration will heed our caution before moving forward.” 

“At a time when collaboration between the United States and Israel is of utmost importance, we need an ambassador that works to reaffirm our nation’s unfailing support for Israel,” said Congresswoman Claudia Tenney. “Given Secretary Lew’s history of controversial remarks and actions that harm Israel’s global standing and national security, he is ill-suited for this critical role. We need an ambassador who can engage with Israeli leadership, and Jack Lew has proven he is the wrong man for the job. President Biden must nominate an individual who is able to enhance our critical bond and partnership, especially given the Biden administration’s already chilled relationship with Prime Minister Netanyahu. Today, I am joined by a distinguished group of my colleagues urging the President to reconsider this important nomination.”

View the full letter here.

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