House Minority Whip Steny Hoyer (D-MD) saluted Israel on its 64th anniversary, hailing its remarkable political and economic achievements, The Hill reported.

"Not only do the United States and Israel share common interests; we also share the same values," he said on April 26. "Democracy, equal opportunity, human rights, and a yearning for peace are the ideals we hold in our hearts — and together we have worked for 64 years to defend them and promote them."

Hoyer also praised Israel’s ability to accomplish so much in the face of constant danger from hostile neighbors.

"Israelis continue to impress the world with their achievements in business, technology, sports, the arts, and the defense of human rights," he said. "They are even more remarkable when considering the very real dangers Israel faces in the form of terrorism, regional instability, and the threat from Iran."