WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement:

“I’m deeply disturbed that President Trump reportedly violated the trust of our ally, Israel.  The intelligence-sharing relationship between the United States and Israel has grown tremendously in the past several years, leading to security advancements for both of our countries. 

“Russia has become closer with Iran and its terrorist proxy, Hezbollah—sworn enemies of Israel—as they fight on the same battlefield defending the murderous Assad regime.  It’s dangerous to hand the Russians sensitive Israeli information that Israel has not consented to sharing, especially if this information could get in the hands of Iran or Hezbollah. 

“Our security cooperation with Israel saves lives.  It is a strategic and tactical asset.  Risking this relationship puts our national security in peril. 

“I call on the Administration to release the transcripts of the Oval Office visit with the Russian Foreign Minister and implore President Trump not to be so careless in the future.”

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