The collective spirit of Texans & Israelis prevails, and will spread light unto the world
By Massey Villarreal
AUSTIN, Texas (Texas Insider Report) — As a Texan, I know the values of independence and resilience run deep within me. I also know these same values resonate within the spirit of Israel, Texas’s valued ally and partner. The unprovoked, premeditated massacres perpetrated by Hamas terrorists against innocent civilians in Israel last year have done more than just evoke sympathy for our Israeli friends – they have fueled a renewed commitment to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with those on the front lines of defending liberty and democratic values.
Texans recognize that Hamas’ acts of cowardice extend beyond mere war crimes – they are barbaric attacks aimed at destroying the very values we hold dear. That’s why I felt compelled to publicly address and condemn these heinous attacks on behalf of the Texas business community that I have the privilege of representing, while reaffirming that we unequivocally stand with Israel.
Shortly thereafter, I took my commitment a step further by flying from Texas to Israel – not just as a witness, but as an active participant in the fight against injustice.Before a group of American and Israeli patriots at Israel’s Knesset, I proudly delivered a proclamation on behalf of the Texas Association of Business (TAB) condemning the Hamas terror attack and making clear that the Texas business community stands with Israel. Thanks to my friend David Yaari, I also had the privilege of meeting with top leaders in the private sector to further advance the strong commercial relationships between the Lone Star State and the Star of David State.
I was honored to be part of a diverse delegation of thought leaders invited to witness firsthand the aftermath of these unprovoked attacks.
Traveling through Kfar Aza and Kibbutz Beeri, my eyes were opened to the stark realities faced by the Israeli people, who are forced every single day to contend with a terror state within striking distance.
Walking through these communities, my blood boiled as I saw the destruction and felt the pain that lingered in the air. Yet, witnessing evil up close did not instill fear; instead, it hardened my determination to stand firm against injustice.
Today, our solidarity with Israel goes beyond words; it transforms into action, as we recognize that standing with Israel is not just a symbolic gesture, but a commitment to fight side by side for justice.
Walking through these communities, my blood boiled as I saw the destruction and felt the pain that lingered in the air. Yet, witnessing evil up close did not instill fear; instead, it hardened my determination to stand firm against injustice.
Today, our solidarity with Israel goes beyond words; it transforms into action, as we recognize that standing with Israel is not just a symbolic gesture, but a commitment to fight side by side for justice.
Long before the Hamas attacks on October 7th, I had already recognized Israel’s vital kinship with Texas. In fact, I had made it my mission to bring as many Texas lawmakers and business leaders to Israel as I could over the years.
We are fitting companions given our shared goals of promoting technological innovation and economic growth.
Many Israeli companies – including Alon Energy, Elbit Systems, and NICE – have already established a presence in Texas, while Texas-based companies continue to support Israel’s capacity to defend itself. In fact, Israel’s F-35 combat planes are manufactured in Fort Worth.
We also share common technological goals in being ahead of the curve in cybersecurity, semiconductor manufacturing, and developing sustainable sources of energy to power our booming economies.Texans – as proud citizens of the world’s 8th Largest Economy – see in Israel a natural partner for collaboration. As the ‘Scale-up State,’ Texas shares common ground with Israel's innovation economy, making us ideal partners for the continued support for and success of Israel's ‘Start Up Nation.’
In times of war, it is crucial to build bridges, fostering partnerships that transcend borders. Texas and Israel, with their shared values and determination, exemplify the strength that comes from unity. I am committed as chairman of the state chamber to ensure TAB develops a permanent effort to deepen the relationship between our close friend and ally, Israel.
As we navigate these challenging times, I know that our alliance will be a beacon of hope, proving that even in the face of adversity, the collective spirit of Texans and Israelis will prevail and spread light unto the world.
Massey Villarreal is the Chairman of the Texas Association of Business.
