Mike Johnson Reaffirms Biblical Basis for Israel’s Claim to Judea and Samaria

U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson reaffirmed his support for Israel’s biblical claim to Judea and Samaria, telling Samaria Regional Council head Yossi Dagan this week in Washington that the region is “the Land of Israel.”

“I visited Samaria both as a member of Congress before becoming speaker, and again last summer as speaker,” Johnson said. “The Bible is clear Judea and Samaria are the Land of Israel. I do not understand why we debate this anew every single day.”

Johnson’s remarks came during Dagan’s diplomatic tour to promote Israeli sovereignty over the disputed territory. The Samaria leader presented the speaker with copper artwork depicting key biblical sites such as Joseph’s Tomb, Mount Gerizim, and Sebastia.

Dagan, referencing the prophetic visions of Jeremiah, Amos and Ezekiel, said: “Two thousand years ago, the prophets foretold that the people of Israel would return to their land… That is exactly what we are doing today.”

He called Judea and Samaria not only a matter of “justice” but also Israel’s “protective shield” a claim reinforced by the October 7 Hamas attacks.

Dagan also addressed a House Foreign Affairs Committee hearing titled “Understanding Judea and Samaria: Historical, Strategic and Political Dynamics in U.S.–Israel Relations.” It was described as the first time the U.S. government formally used the region’s biblical name.

Since 2022, Israel has approved over 50,000 housing units and more than 50 new communities in the area. As of Jan. 2025, over 529,000 Jews reside in Judea and Samaria 5.28% of Israel’s population.

A January 2025 poll showed nearly 70% of Israelis support extending full sovereignty over the territory.

Johnson previously visited Samaria in 2023 with backing from President Trump and the State Department, becoming the highest-ranking U.S. official to cross Israel’s pre-1967 lines. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.