Grant Lally, the Republican candidate for Congress in New York's Fifth Congressional District, is planning a trip to Israel this summer to discuss issues of importance in United States / Israeli relations.

Lally is scheduled to meet with Prime Minister-elect Bibi Netanyahu, Mayor of Jerusalem Ehud Olmert, Mayor of Tel Aviv Roni Milo, M. K. Ron Nachman, and the Mayor of M'Aleh Adumim Benny Kashriel.

"I am outraged by the continuing acts of violence that are a threat to the people of Israel and to decent people throughout the world," Lally stated. Lally was referring to a drive-by shooting between Tel Aviv and Jerusalem that occurred on June 9, that murdered the parents of a young child. "I will lend my voice against these murderous acts of violence, and I wish the Israeli government success in apprehending these murderers."

"Israel is our closest friend, and we must be strong and vocal in defending her," Lally stated.

"I am greatly looking forward to visiting Israel," Lally stated. "Israel is America's strongest ally, and I look forward to lending my support to Israel as a private citizen and next year as a member of the 105th Congress."