Following a tense night of missile strikes aimed at Israel from Iranian forces, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer on Sunday emphasized the urgent need for bolstered defense capabilities in Israel and Ukraine.
Schumer, D-N.Y., joined by President Joe Biden, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Ky., House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., and House Speaker Mike Johnson in a conference call, underscored the critical role of the United States in fortifying the security of its allies.
“We are all breathing a giant sigh of relief,” Schumer said at a New York City press conference. The majority of the threats were neutralized, with Schumer noting, “Israel and the U.S. took out about 99% of them.”
“The cooperation between Israel and the United States in taking out these drones and missiles was superlative. And that’s why so few of them actually hit their targets,” he said. “The fact that the United States and Israel were cooperating, and this was in planning for weeks, shows that our commitment to Israel’s security is ironclad.”
Highlighting commitment to Israel’s security, Schumer lauded the collaborative efforts between the United States, Israel, and allied nations in thwarting the aggression orchestrated by Iran.
“The fact that so many nations participated to make sure that Iran’s attacks were stymied is a very, very good thing,” Schumer said, adding that Iran faces increasing isolation.
However, Schumer stressed that immediate action is imperative to assist Israel in replenishing its depleted defense systems.
“Obviously, we need to help Israel,” Schumer said, pointing to the necessity of replenishing vital air defense systems such as the Iron Dome, Arrow, and David’s Sling. Schumer advocated for the passage of a security supplemental bill, co-sponsored with McConnell, which garnered significant bipartisan support.
“The best way to help Israel rebuild its anti-missile and anti-drone capacity is by passing that supplemental [bill] immediately,” Schumer said. He underscored that the aid package not only addresses Israel’s needs but also provides crucial support for Ukraine’s defense against ongoing Russian aggression.
Schumer’s plea for the swift passage of the supplemental bill echoed the sentiments of bipartisan leaders, emphasizing the pivotal role of the United States in supporting its allies.
“The best way to help Israel and to help Ukraine is to pass the supplemental this week,” Schumer said, calling on Speaker Johnson to expedite the legislative process.
As tensions persist in the region and Ukraine remains under threat, Schumer underscored the significance of immediate action.
“It’s vital for the future of Ukraine, for Israel, and the West,” he said.
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