Díaz-Balart Commemorates Passover, Reaffirms Support for Jewish Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C. - Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart (FL-26), co-chair of the Congressional Latino-Jewish Caucus and the Interparliamentary Task Force to Combat Online Antisemitism, issued the following statement marking the beginning of the Jewish holiday, Pesach:

"As Passover begins, I commemorate the Jewish people's exodus from slavery in Ancient Egypt more than 3,300 years ago-a powerful story of resilience, faith, and freedom that continues to inspire. It is a time to reflect, to gather with loved ones, and to celebrate the enduring strength of the Jewish spirit.

"I proudly honor the contributions of Jewish Americans, who have shaped our nation since its founding-fighting in every American conflict since the Revolutionary War, earning 18Medals of Honor, and making history across every field-from cabinet secretaries, Supreme Court justices, Members of Congress, scientists, Grammy-winning musicians, and world-renowned artists.

"Within my own congressional district-home to vibrant Jewish communities-I celebrate the veterans, selfless servicemen and women, and countless other exceptional individuals making a difference every single day.

"Yet this year, Passover arrives during a time of deep pain for the Jewish community. The alarming rise in antisemitism and vitriol against Jewish people across the world and here in our country, especially on college campuses, is of serious concern and threatens the safety and wellbeing of Jewish Americans. This hatred is anti-American, despicable, dangerous, and contrary to the foundational values of our country. We must never allow the hatred and indifference that led to the atrocities of the past to be forgotten or ignored.

"On October 7, 2023, Israel suffered the deadliest terrorist attack in its 76-year history. The Israel-Hamas war began when Hamas, the evil, Iranian-backed terrorist group, launched an unprovoked and barbaric assault on Israel, resulting in the massacre of more than 1,200 innocent civilians, including 46 Americans. Hamas brutally kidnapped 254 hostages, including 12 Americans. Four of those Americans-Hersh Goldberg-Polin, Itay Chen, Judy Weinstein, and Gad Haggai-were murdered by Hamas. Today, 59 hostages remain in Hamas' brutal captivity.

"Just this week, as co-chair of the Latino-Jewish Congressional Caucus, I met with former hostages and the families of those still in captivity, including recently released American hostage Keith Siegel and his wife Aviva, who was also held captive by Hamas in Gaza. My heart aches for the victims of October 7, and hearing the firsthand accounts of the horrific conditions endured-including mental torture and sexual and physical violence is deeply disturbing. No one should ever suffer such cruelty.

"As Israel defends itself against relentless terrorist attacks and works to bring its citizens home, Congress must remain united in unwavering support and solidarity with Israel. We must continue to demand the release of every hostage and ensure that the perpetrators are held accountable.

"This Passover, I pray for freedom-for those still in captivity, for the families grieving unimaginable loss, and for Jewish communities facing rising threats. But I also celebrate the unbreakable resilience, hope, and enduring legacy of a people who, through centuries of persecution, continue to grow stronger.

"May this season bring comfort, strength, unity, and renewed faith in a future of peace and safety for Israel, for the Jewish people, and for us all. Chag Sameach."

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