Texas to Open Economic Office in Jerusalem Strengthening Israel Ties

In a landmark move underscoring the deepening relationship between Texas and Israel, the State of Texas is preparing to open a permanent economic office in Jerusalem its first in the Middle East. The initiative, expected to be officially announced in the coming days, represents more than a symbolic gesture; it signals a strategic expansion of a thriving partnership already worth nearly $4 billion annually.

The project stems from a November 2025 request for proposals by Governor Greg Abbott’s Economic Development and Tourism Office, culminating in a competitive process that closed on January 6. The forthcoming Jerusalem office is part of Texas’ global outreach strategy, which until now included trade offices only in Mexico and Taiwan.

Leaders on both sides describe the office as a reflection of economic realities, not political posturing. With Israeli innovation leading in fields like water technology, cybersecurity, defense, and advanced manufacturing, and Texas hosting the fastest-growing economy in the U.S., the synergies are too powerful to ignore.

David Yaari, CEO of the Texas Israel Partnership, emphasized the significance of this milestone. “Texas has built the fastest-growing economy in the United States across multiple sectors,” he said. “More than 1,200 people move to Texas each day. It’s fertile ground to scale Israeli innovation.”

Fleur Hassan-Nahoum, Israel’s special envoy for innovation and a former deputy mayor of Jerusalem, praised the decision to place the office in Israel’s capital. “This is a gateway decision,” she said. “It connects one of the world’s largest economies to a global innovation powerhouse.”

Support has also come from Texas business leaders. Massey Villarreal, former chairman of the Texas Association of Business, said, “Israel is not just a partner, it’s a multiplier.” The Jerusalem office is expected to enhance long-term trade ties and facilitate joint ventures across sectors.

These ties are already bearing fruit. The BIRD Foundation’s Southern Region director, Anat Ben Yosef, noted that Israeli companies increasingly view Texas as their entry point to the U.S. market, with ongoing collaborations in artificial intelligence, robotics, and energy.

The potential goes beyond commerce. Commissioner Grant Moody of Bexar County pointed to opportunities in financial markets, envisioning dual listings and investment bridges between the new Texas Stock Exchange in Dallas and the Tel Aviv Stock Exchange.

Deputy Foreign Minister Sharren Haskel echoed these sentiments, referencing Governor Abbott’s solidarity visit following the October 7 attacks. “Our partnership reflects shared values and shared ambition,” she stated.

While the formal opening of the office is imminent, stakeholders agree this is not the beginning but the formal recognition of a relationship already deeply rooted. The focus going forward is clear: results, growth, and a future of mutual prosperity.

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