New York, N.Y. — Today, Congressman Jerrold Nadler (D-NY) delivered the following statement regarding the Israeli government's decision to deny entry to Representatives Ilhan Omar (D-MN) and Rashida Tlaib (D-MI):

“It is utterly egregious for the Israeli government to deny entry to two sitting members of the United States Congress. The close relationship enjoyed by the United States and Israel should extend to all its government representatives, regardless of their views on specific issues or policies. This decision undermines the ability for our two allied countries to have the frank, open and, at times, difficult discussions that we must have in order to ensure Israel remains a secure and democratic nation.

“I strongly condemn this decision and urge the Israeli government to allow entry to these Congresswomen and welcome them in the respectful, dignified manner to which they are entitled as official representatives of the United States.”