South Dakota Governor Leads Trade Mission to Israel

South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden is leading a business-focused trade mission to Israel, accompanied by a delegation of defense and agriculture businesses seeking to expand sales in the Israeli market. During the visit, Rhoden met with Israeli President Isaac Herzog, Speaker of the Knesset Amir Ohana, and Foreign Minister Gideon Sa’ar, discussing economic cooperation and regional security concerns, including Iran's nuclear ambitions. The mission has generated millions in sales and aims to build a robust pipeline for further business expansion. Rhoden also participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Yad Vashem, honoring Holocaust victims and reflecting on his father's role in liberating the Mauthausen concentration camp. Additionally, the governor visited the Gandel Rehabilitation Center at Hadassah Medical Organization to meet soldiers recovering from injuries sustained in the Gaza conflict, highlighting the humanitarian aspect of the trip. U.S. Ambassador to Israel Mike Huckabee is hosting a reception to honor Rhoden's visit, and South Dakota Trade plans further missions to the UK, Ireland, and Canada later in 2025.