WASHINGTON, DC -  House Majority Leader Steny H. Hoyer (MD) will join a group of 18 House Democrats traveling to Israel and the West Bank from August 11th - 19th to learn more about issues critical to the U.S.-Israel relationship. 

"I look forward to returning to Israel and continuing to learn more about Israel, the Mid-East, and how this region affects U.S. security interests," said Hoyer.  "This trip is a great opportunity for Members of Congress to see the area first hand and gain a greater understanding of the issues involved in developing a lasting peace in the Middle East, as well as strengthening our own nation's security."

During the week-long trip, Hoyer and the delegation will meet with Israeli and Palestinian officials including Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Olmert, Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Israeli President Shimon Peres, and Palestinian Prime Minister Salam Fayyad.  Meetings will also be held with American diplomats, military officials, and academics.  While in Israel, Members will also visit significant cultural and historical sites including Yad Vashem Holocaust Memorial, the Western Wall, and sites holy to the Christian faith.

The trip is being organized by the American Israel Education Foundation, which is an independent, nonprofit charitable organization affiliated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC).

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