Fargo Standard

Congresswoman Julie Fedorchak (R-N.D.) has returned from a bipartisan congressional delegation visit to Israel, where she engaged with Israeli leaders, defense officials, and citizens. The week-long trip aimed to provide members of Congress with a direct understanding of Israel’s security situation, historical context, and the ongoing partnership between Israel and the United States.

“Traveling to Israel and seeing its challenges was an invaluable experience,” Fedorchak said. “From walking ancient streets to hearing from leaders, soldiers, and everyday citizens, I saw how these determined people protect their way of life against constant threats. This trip reinforced for me that America’s security is tied to Israel’s security—and I return to Congress with a deeper understanding of how that partnership supports the safety, energy security, and prosperity of North Dakota and our entire nation.”

During the seven-day visit, Fedorchak took part in briefings on regional threats and observed U.S.-Israel defense cooperation firsthand. She also met survivors of the October 7 Hamas attacks.

The trip started in Jerusalem with an overview of its religious significance for Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. The delegation listened to Yaakov Katz, former editor-in-chief of The Jerusalem Post, discuss Israel’s internal dynamics and current security issues nearly two years after the October 7 terrorist attack. Members also visited archeological sites at the City of David.

“Jerusalem’s history is alive in every stone,” Fedorchak said. “You can feel the weight of faith, resilience, and sacrifice here. It’s impossible not to see how this city’s story still shapes our world today.”

The group received a briefing from Brigadier General (Res.) Nitzan Nuriel on threats facing Israel from multiple fronts including Hamas, Hezbollah, Iran, Syria, Yemen's Houthis among others. At an Israeli military base they viewed the Arrow-3 missile defense system—developed jointly by the U.S. and Israel—which had intercepted a missile from Yemen just before their visit.

Fedorchak met with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to discuss developments in Gaza as well as continued U.S.-Israel collaboration. Additional briefings were provided by former leaders from Israel's air defense and intelligence sectors focusing on Iran's involvement in regional instability.

The delegation toured sites such as Yad Vashem Holocaust memorial; Jerusalem's Old City including Southern Wall excavations; Western Wall; Church of the Holy Sepulchre; Rafael Advanced Defense Systems—where they saw technology like Iron Beam laser defense system—and held discussions with Opposition Leader Yair Lapid regarding prospects for peace.

“The defense technology Israel is developing and testing in real time combat situations with the U.S. doesn’t just protect Israelis—it protects American troops, too,” Fedorchak said. “Seeing it up close makes clear why this relationship is mutually beneficial.”

In northern Israel near Syria and Lebanon—including Golan Heights—the group learned about border security challenges from local experts while meeting IDF soldiers and humanitarian workers who addressed intersections between aid efforts and safety concerns.

In southern communities affected by Hamas’ October 7 attacks—including burned homes—Fedorchak spoke with survivors at sites such as Nova Music Festival where many young people were killed or injured during those events. A tree-planting ceremony was held honoring victims.

“There is no substitute for seeing the aftermath with your own eyes,” Fedorchak said. “The grief is deep, but so is the Israeli people’s hope and determination to survive. That resilience is something I will never forget. And their hope is evident in the large number of children and families that are everywhere in public places.”

While visiting Bethlehem under Palestinian control—at Church of Nativity—she met relatives of hostages still held in Gaza followed by a performance by a survivor using music as means for healing after losing family members during attacks on Kibbutz Be’eri.

On her final day she met President Isaac Herzog who emphasized bipartisan American support as vital for helping Israel defend itself against terrorism:

President Herzog stressed strengthening partnerships between both countries while expressing gratitude toward continued U.S assistance amid conflict situations involving Gaza:

Fedorchak also conferred with U.S Ambassador Mike Huckabee who discussed diplomatic aspects shaping bilateral relations—from deterring threats through military coordination—to counteracting Iranian influence regionally:

Finally Mount Herzl cemetery was visited paying tribute to recently fallen Israeli soldiers since last year’s escalation.