Idaho Leaders Travel to Israel
A group of Idaho lawmakers joined what officials are calling the largest-ever U.S. delegation of state legislators to visit Israel. The trip, organized by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, brought together more than 250 elected officials under the banner “50 States, One Israel.”
Idaho participants included Reps. Barbara Ehardt (R-Idaho Falls), Josh Tanner (R-Eagle), Bruce Skaug (R-Nampa), John Shirts (R-Weiser), and Ilana Rubel (D-Boise).
Photos posted online and coverage in Israeli media confirmed the Idaho delegation’s presence. Rep. Rubel, the only lawmaker to comment publicly, emphasized that no taxpayer funds were used for the trip.
Netanyahu and Sa’ar Address Delegation
During a press conference in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu praised the bipartisan group of U.S. legislators, calling it proof of America’s enduring support.
Israeli Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar urged lawmakers to strengthen anti-Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) laws in their states. He framed BDS as a modern form of anti-Semitism, saying, “The boycotters must be boycotted. Those who delegitimize must themselves be delegitimized.”
Idaho already has laws on the books preventing public contracts with organizations that boycott Israel.
Visit Amid Conflict in Gaza
The visit comes as Israel conducts military operations in Gaza, which the United Nations reports have caused widespread casualties and displacement. UN officials allege that Israeli forces have committed violations amounting to crimes against humanity, though Israel disputes these findings.
Delegates toured historic sites and areas impacted by Hamas’ October 2023 attacks. Legislators also participated in a symbolic tree-planting ceremony, with each state represented by a sapling.
Rubel Responds
In comments to Boise State Public Radio, Rep. Rubel said Idaho lawmakers were assured that their presence “was not an endorsement of the current government but rather an opportunity to learn and ask questions.”
She added that the delegation aimed to better understand U.S.–Israel relations at a time of heightened global scrutiny.
Key Takeaways
- Five Idaho lawmakers joined a 250-member U.S. delegation to Israel.
- The trip was organized by Israel’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs as part of a campaign to bolster U.S. support.
- Israeli leaders urged states to reinforce anti-BDS laws.
- The visit occurred while Israel continues operations in Gaza amid sharp criticism from international organizations.
Related Coverage
- Idaho Politics – https://idahonews.co/idaho-politics/
- U.S. Foreign Relations – https://idahonews.co/national-news/
- Global News – https://idahonews.co/global-news/
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