Press Releases

As part of a Congressional delegation with the Committee on Homeland Security, Rep. Barry Loudermilk traveled to the Middle East and Europe to examine the evolving security threats to the U.S. homeland. Specifically, the delegation assessed U.S. government and foreign partner efforts to shut down the flow of foreign fighters, many of whom return to their home countries in the West armed with combat training, extremist connections, and the desire to launch terror attacks.

During the 10-day trip, the delegation met with government leaders and counterterrorism officials in Israel, Iraq, Turkey, Germany, Belgium, and France. The delegation also analyzed European counterterrorism programs, best practices to counter violent extremism, and the US/Coalition strategy to counter ISIS in Iraq.

“Visiting 8 countries in 10 days was exhausting, but the dialogue with heads of state, foreign ministers, and counterterrorism experts was critical in working with ally nations to stem the tide of foreign fighters returning to the U.S. While we are leading the world in tracking and stopping terrorists returning from the conflict zone, we must have greater information-sharing from our European and Middle Eastern allies. I believe this trip will go a long way in developing our internal policies, as well as assisting other nations, in stopping the flow of terrorists throughout Europe and the Middle East,” said Rep. Barry Loudermilk.

Led by Chairman Michael McCaul (R-Texas), the Congressional delegation included Chairman Pete Sessions (R-Texas), Rep. Vern Buchanan (R-Fla.), Rep. Bill Keating (D-Mass.), Rep. John Katko (R-N.Y.), Rep. William Hurd (R-Texas), Rep. Barry Loudermilk (R-Ga.), and Rep. Kathleen Rice (D-N.Y.)