House Speaker Mike Johnson Postpones Israel Knesset Speech Amid Iran Conflict

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) has postponed his planned trip to Israel and speech before the Knesset due to the escalating conflict between Israel and Iran. The postponement follows Israel's preemptive strikes on Iran's nuclear and military facilities, which killed top Iranian scientists and triggered a retaliatory missile attack from Iran, resulting in Israeli casualties. Johnson and Knesset Speaker Amir Ohana jointly decided to delay the special session, expressing their hopes to reschedule and offering prayers for the people affected in Israel and the Middle East. The conflict has disrupted civilian air traffic and public gatherings in Israel, complicating travel plans for U.S. congressional delegations and others. Johnson has been a steadfast supporter of Israel, emphasizing the moral imperative to stand with the country amid its battles against Hamas and Iran's nuclear ambitions. Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department elevated its travel advisory for Israel to the highest level due to armed conflict, terrorism, and civil unrest.