Amid escalating threats and instability in the Middle East, House Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole led a bipartisan delegation to strengthen U.S. defense and partnerships with allies in the region. The delegation, which included Representatives Rosa DeLauro, John Rutherford, Ed Case, and Mark Alford, engaged with leaders from Egypt, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and Israel.

The meetings aimed to enhance understanding of conflicts involving Iran's proxies and discuss mutual objectives for regional peace and security. "Diplomacy is crucial to protecting American interests around the world," emphasized the group.

In discussions with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, King Abdullah II of Jordan, and Saudi officials, the U.S. lawmakers focused on reinforcing strategic alliances and increasing regional cooperation.

In Israel, they reiterated strong ties with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other key officials while receiving briefings on military operations against Hamas and Hezbollah. The delegation visited Mount Herzl to honor victims of past attacks.

The trip concluded with a visit to a U.S. warship in the eastern Mediterranean to commend officers defending American interests.