[Congressional Record Volume 164, Number 95 (Friday, June 8, 2018)] [House] [Page H4985] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov] HONORING ISRAEL'S 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF INDEPENDENCE (Mr. PALMER asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. PALMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of Israel's 70th anniversary of independence. The United States has no stronger ally in the Middle East than the State of Israel. Our relationship is one rooted in shared values and a commitment to freedom and democracy. Israel's dedication to political and economic freedom, free and fair elections, and freedom of religion provides a stark contrast with other regimes in the region. On this anniversary, I also want to recognize the important relationship between Israel and the State of Alabama. Few people know that 5 years prior to Israel gaining independence, Alabama became the first and perhaps only State to call for the establishment of a Jewish state. Seventy-five years ago, on June 10, 1943, in the midst of World War II, the Alabama legislature unanimously passed a joint resolution calling for a Jewish state, and for the Jewish people to have the right to self-government and self-determination. Since that day, in acknowledgment and support of our mutual values, Alabama and Israel have maintained a special friendship. Indeed, Alabama and the United States are proud to call Israel our ally, and look forward to our continued support of Israel and our continued friendship. ____________________