The below is attributable to Spokesperson Jessica Jennings:
On January 27, Administrator Samantha Power met with Michael Herzog, Israel’s Ambassador to the United States. Administrator Power and Ambassador Herzog reflected on the somber occasion of International Holocaust Remembrance Day, and honored the victims and survivors of the Holocaust.
Administrator Power underscored the U.S. government's commitment to the strong bilateral and regional partnership with Israel. Administrator Power thanked Ambassador Herzog for the Government of Israel’s continued support for USAID’s programming to improve the lives of the Palestinian people and for the Middle East Partnership for Peace Act. She expressed her condolences for the families of those Israelis who died or were injured in yesterday’s attack at a synagogue in Jerusalem. They discussed their shared concern regarding the recent violence in the West Bank and efforts that could be taken to reduce tension between the parties. She emphasized the importance of maintaining a collaborative relationship to preserve prospects for a sustainable and peaceful two-state solution.
Administrator Power and Ambassador Herzog discussed how both the United States and Israel are working to support innovative local solutions to address regional sustainability challenges relating to water resources and agriculture. She shared her enthusiasm for the opportunities for expanded cooperation with Israel, including through the Negev Forum Working Groups and the continued partnership with Israel’s development organization Mashav. The Administrator also praised Israel for its critical response efforts to support the crisis in Ukraine.