Republican Texas Gov. Greg Abbott arrived in Israel Thursday to reaffirm the Lone Star State’s support as the war with Hamas continues, his office said in a news release.

This marks Abbott’s third trip to Israel since he took office in 2015.

What You Need To Know

  • Texas Gov. Greg Abbott, along with Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, is in Israel to reaffirm support as the war with terror group Hamas is ongoing

  • Abbott met with Israeli Prime Minster Benjamin Netanyahu and will meet with other officials as well as victims and affected families

  • This marks Abbott third trip to Israel since he took office in 2015

  • Abbott has taken steps to bolster Jewish security and stop antisemitism in Texas

“There is a deep, enduring bond between Texas and Israel, with the blessings of freedom and burdens of vigilance embedded in the histories of both our people,” Abbott said.

“Unfortunately, never has freedom in Israel been more threatened than it is right now—and the people of Israel are vigorously fighting to defend it. I look forward to gaining a deeper understanding of this horrific war and how we can continue to help Israel safeguard their freedom during this trip,” Abbott continued. “Texas stands ready to offer our complete and total support to Israel in their fight against brutal terrorist organizations like Hamas.”

Abbott’s office said he is scheduled to meet with Israeli officials and visit with victims and affected families. Also on the trip is Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt.

The office released a photo of Abbott with Stitt and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, Abbott has taken steps to bolster security and combat antisemitism in Texas. That includes a grant totaling $4 million to support security enhancements for Jewish organizations, directing the Texas Department of Public Safety to coordinate with local partners and federal intelligence agencies to strengthen public safety measures, and directing the Texas Holocaust, Genocide and Antisemitism Advisory Commission to identify ways to quickly report and take preventative actions against acts of antisemitism.

DPS last month said that although it is not aware of any specific, credible threats to Jewish Texans, it is concerned that the attack on Israel and subsequent war with Hamas could inspire homegrown extremists and foreign terrorist organizations operating in the U.S.

Abbott also said he issued an executive order directing Texas state agencies to not purchase goods produced in our exported from the Gaza Strip or any organization with ties to Hamas.

In October, Texas Comptroller Glenn Hegar announced the state purchased another $20 million in Israel bonds in a show of support.

Hegar said that since 1994, Texas has invested in Israel bonds annually and with the latest purchase will hold nearly $100 million in them. The fixed-rate bonds mature within five years and carry an interest rate of 5.74%.