FY27 NSRP Approps bill – Middle East details – House version – updated 4/28/26

Resource

April 23, 2026

On 4/22/26, the the House Appropriations Committee released the initial draft of the FY27 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations bill. Also see: bill summary. The Committee’s press release noted that the following Middle East-relate highlights in the base bill:

Champions America First Foreign Policy by: “…Requiring consideration of a recipient partner country’s cooperation on United States priorities such as migration issues, opposing foreign adversaries, burden sharing, support for Taiwan’s participation in multilateral forums, and United Nations votes in determining economic assistance allocations… Prohibiting funds for organizations who may have hired terrorists that took part in the October 7th, 2023, mass atrocities – including the murder of 50 Americans since the initial attack – but refuse to cooperate with United States Inspector General investigations.“
Supports the Trump Administration and mandate of the American people by: “...Upholding America First priorities by promoting a foreign policy that supports our allies and counters our adversaries, focusing on the economic prosperity and national security of the United States, and eliminating contributions to multilateral organizations that are wasteful and antithetical to American values.“
Bolsters United States national security and border protections by: “Providing unwavering support for Israel by including not less than $3.3 billion in Foreign Military Financing Program funds. Providing robust assistance for key United States partners Egypt and Jordan.“
Safeguards American taxpayer dollars and preserves core functions by: “…Prohibiting funds for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA).”

UPDATE 4/28/26: On 4/28/26 the full House Appropriations Committees released held a full committee markup of FY27 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations bill. In the context of this markup, the committee also released the Committee report laying out the Committee’s intent with respect to the bill. Middle East-related portions of that report have been added to the text below [where possible paired with the relevant bill language]

NOTE: In the context of the ongoing Israel-made humanitarian catastrophe and annihilation of Palestinian life in the Gaza Strip, the escalating Israeli terrorism and ethnic cleansing against Palestinians in the West Bank, and Israel’s ongoing destruction and killing in Lebanon, this bill [and its accompanying report]:

Makes no mention of Israel’s actions in Gaza or the situation there, or of escalating Israeli terrorism/ethnic cleansing targeting Palestinians in the West Bank.
Earmarks NO FUNDING for Palestinians – in either the West Bank or Gaza Strip.
Continues with the layering on of ever-more conditions/restrictions/etc to be applied in the event that any U.S. funds end up being used for the Palestinians [Sec. 7037, Sec. 7038, Sec. 7039, Sec. 7040, Sec. 7041(h)]
Earmarks MASSIVE FUNDING for Israel without any conditions. [$6.5 million for refugee resettlement in Israel, $3.3 billion in FMF, of which $250.3 million can be spent in Israel – Sec. 7041(c)]
Extends the existing $9 billion US loan guarantee program for Israel [Sec. 7034(g)(3)]
Bars funding to UNRWA [Sec. 7048(e)].
Bars funding for the UN Human Rights Council & UN Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territories [Sec. 7048(d)]
Links U.S. aid to how other countries vote at the UN [Sec. 7048(a)]
Withholds 15% of US funding for the UN until the UN satisfies a list of conditions, including “taking credible steps to combat anti-Israel bias” – increased from 10% in the 2026 bill [Sec. 7048(b)]
Bars funding for the ICC and ICJ [Sec. 7048(l)]
Bars funding for a Department of State Office of Palestinian Affairs [Sec. 7041(h)(1)(C)]
Conditions funding to the UN Secretariat on the UN giving up diplomatic immunity for anyone the U.S. wants to prosecute for alleged support for terror (to enable the prosecution of people associated with UNRWA in US courts; note that this would set a precedent that would be a death blow to the ability of the UN to operate anywhere). [Sec. 7049(a)]
Makes all US funding under the bill conditional on the recipient (organization or individual) cooperating with U.S. investigations, with a look-back of 5 years, related to Gaza, the Oct. 7, 2023 Hamas attacks on Israel, or [U.S. allegations of] “the provision of material support or resources to an organization or individual designated pursuant to United States law or Executive order relating to terrorism or sanctions.” [Sec. 7049(a)]
Bars funding in the bill “to support the admission and resettlement into the United States of a foreign national from Gaza.” [Section 7041(h)(3)(H)].
Earmarks NO FUNDING to help the Lebanese people (indeed, makes no mention of the massive destruction/displacement being wreaked on Lebanon by Israel).

Bottom line: Love it or hate it: in the context of current events, the clear message sent by this bill is continued total support for Israel’s annihilation/eradication of Palestinian life in Gaza, ethnic cleansing of West Bank/E. Jerusalem, & mass destruction/occupation in Lebanon.

Full details of the Middle East-related provisions in this base bill [and the accompany report – report text is in PURPLE ITALICS] are laid out below:

Middle East-Related Details in the Appropriations Committee’s 1st Draft of FY27 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations bill

National security: The Committee recommendation includes steadfast support for Israel by providing $3,300,000,000 from funds made available under Foreign Military Financing Program, consistent with the United States-Israel Memorandum of Understanding. The coordinated military action by the United States and Israel against Iran’s ballistic missile, drone, and other conventional military capabilities, as well as against its nuclear program, will help ensure that the terrorist Iranian regime is unable to threaten the security of the United States and our allies and partners for years to come. To further bolster regional security, the Committee strongly encourages longstanding allies and partners to work with the United States to help secure freedom of navigation within critical sea lanes, including the Strait of Hormuz. As in prior years, the recommendation continues to prohibit funds to implement or enforce any agreement with Iran regarding its nuclear program, including renewal of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action, unless such agreement complies with the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015. In addition, the Committee prohibits the use of funds to revoke the designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. Furthermore, the Committee encourages continued vigilance and support to our partners in the aftermath of military action to reduce and, if possible, eliminate longstanding threats from the Iranian regime and its proxies in the region.

INTERNATIONAL ORGANIZATIONS: The Committee recommendation does not include funding for assessed contributions for certain United Nations agencies and other international organizations, including the United Nations regular budget. The Committee also prohibits funds to the World Health Organization (WHO), the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), and other organizations under section 7048 of this Act. The Committee remains concerned with the continued lack of progress toward meaningful reforms at the United Nations. Such reforms, at a minimum, should include increased fiscal transparency; meaningful consequences for sexual misconduct by United Nations officials and peacekeepers; protections for whistleblowers; efforts to combat antisemitism and anti-Israel bias; and holding member states accountable for undermining international security. Reforms must also address due process and accountability within the United States justice system for the mass atrocities carried out by staff of UNRWA and supported by UNRWA leadership over the past decade, including through the provision of material support and partnership with designated terrorist organizations that contributed to the October 7, 2023 attacks. The Committee strongly condemns the United Nations General Assembly for undermining peace and security between the Israeli and Palestinian peoples by passing the ‘‘Status of Palestine in the United Nations’’ resolution that provided the ‘‘State of Palestine’’ almost all the rights and privileges of Member States. The Committee has concluded that further assessed contributions to the United Nations without significant reform are not justified and increased scrutiny and oversight must predicate any consideration of a voluntary contribution to the United Nations or any United Nations agency. The Committee provides additional direction on the United Nations in section 7048 of this report.

World Health Organization. Section 7048(l)(1) prohibits funds appropriated by this Act from being made available to the WHO…The Committee remains deeply concerned by the WHO’s reluctance to condemn the PRC’s actions, its shift away from core communicable disease functions, and adoption of deeply biased, anti-Israel resolutions that perpetuate harmful and historically antisemitic narratives.

Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund: Perennial bill provision stating: “For necessary expenses of the Center for Middle Eastern-Western Dialogue Trust Fund, as authorized by section 633 of the Departments of Commerce, Justice, and State, the Judiciary, and Related Agencies Appropriations Act, 2004 (22 U.S.C. 2078), the total amount of the interest and earnings accruing to such Fund on or before September 30, 2027, to remain available until expended”

Israeli Arab Scholarship Program: Perennial bill provision stating: “For necessary expenses of the Israeli Arab Scholarship Program, as authorized by section 214 of the Foreign Relations Authorization Act, Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993 (22 U.S.C. 2452 note), all interest and earnings accruing to the Israeli Arab Scholarship Fund on or before September 30, 2027, to remain available until expended.”

International Humanitarian Assistance: “$6,500,000 shall be made available for refugees resettling in Israel”. The report notes: “The Committee directs not less than $6,500,000 for refugees from the former Soviet Union, Eastern Europe, and other refugees resettling in Israel.”

Nonproliferation, anti-terrorism, demining and related programs: “…funds appropriated under this heading may be made available for the IAEA unless the Secretary of State determines that Israel is being denied its right to participate in the activities of that Agency”

National Security Investment Programs [formerly known as Economic Support Funds]: A table included in the Report lays out NSIP for the Middle East and North Africa as follows:

Middle East Partnership Initiative — $50 million
Middle East Regional Cooperation — $7 million
Near East Regional Democracy — $55 million
Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act — $37.5 million
US-Israel Development Cooperation — $3 million

The Report also states: United States-Israel Development Cooperation.—Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the use of funds under this heading for United States-Israel Development Cooperation.

Foreign Military Finance [FMF]: A table included in the Report lays out FMF for “the Near East” as follows:

Bahrain — $4 million
Egypt — $1.3 billion
Israel — $3.3 billion
Jordan — $475 million
Morocco — $20 million

Section 7004: Diplomatic Facilities — Part (e) of this section stipulates that, “…None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be used— (1) to move the United States embassy to the State of Israel to a location other than Jerusalem; or (2) for a United States Embassy, Consulate General, or any other diplomatic facility in Jerusalem other than the United States Embassy to the State of Israel”

Section 7007: Prohibition against direct funding for certain countries — This is a perennial provision banning aid to Cuba, North Korea, and Iran, extending to loans, credits, insurance, and guarantees of the Export-Import Bank or its agents.

Section 7008: Coups d’état — This is a perennial provision stating that no US funding “shall be obligated or expended to finance directly any assistance to the government of any country whose duly elected head of government is deposed by military coup d’etat or decree or, after the date of enactment of this Act, a coup d’etat or decree in which the military plays a decisive role.” It also states that “assistance may be resumed to such government if the Secretary of State certifies and reports to the appropriate congressional committees that subsequent to the termination of assistance a democratically elected government has taken office” and that the prohibition in this section “shall not apply to assistance to promote democratic elections or public participation in democratic processes, or to support a democratic transition.” It also includes a waiver.

Section 7013: Prohibition on taxation of assistance — This is a perennial provision barring taxation of U.S. assistance and imposing huge financial penalties on governments that do so. While this provision appears generic, the only recipient explicitly identified is the West Bank and Gaza. This singling out of the Palestinians reflects the genesis of the provision: long-ago allegations that the Palestinian Authority (PA) was taxing U.S. assistance provided to NGOs (recall that under existing law direct aid to the PA is prohibited), and thereby indirectly benefiting from US assistance designed specifically to bypass the PA. [Note: this is the section that was raised as a problem back when Israel was considering imposing massive taxes on foreign government donations to civil society organizations].

Section 7015: Notification Requirements — Part (f) of this provision states that no funds appropriated under titles III through VI of this Act (pretty much all funds in the bill) may be obligated or expended for assistance to a laundry list of countries, “except as provided through regular notification procedures of the Committees on Appropriations.” From the Middle East, the list includes (this year): Iran, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Syria, Tunisia, and Yemen.

Section 7021: Prohibition on assistance to governments supporting international terrorism — Perennial provision prohibiting funding to any country “which provides lethal military equipment to a country the government of which the Secretary of State has determined supports international terrorism for purposes of section 1754(c) of the Export Reform Control Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4813(c))…” and prohibits bilateral assistance to any country that supports international terrorism, gives sanctuary to terrorists, or is controlled by a terrorist organization. The section includes national security waivers for both restrictions.

Section 7033: International Religious Freedom — Part (c) notes: “Funds appropriated by this Act under the heading ‘National Security Investment Programs’ may be made available notwithstanding any other provision of law for assistance for ethnic and religious minorities in Iraq and Syria..”

Section 7034: Special Provisions: Part (6)(3) of this section extends existing U.S. loan guarantees for Israel (provided under Chapter 5 of title I of the Emergency Wartime Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2003 (Public Law 108–11; 117 Stat. 576) until September 30, 2031 [NOTE: This is the emergency $9 billion that was provided for Israel in 2003, quietly extended over and over by Congress for going on 20 years. As noted in a recent CRS report on US aid to Israel, “Israeli officials may believe that although they have not used the loan guarantees in the last 18 years, maintaining the program boosts the country’s fiscal standing among international creditors in capital markets.“]

Section 7035: Law Enforcement and Security

Part (b)(3) of this section of the bill is a perennial provision providing for financing of commercial leasing of defense articles to Israel, Egypt, and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), and major non-NATO allies.
Part (b)(5) is entitled, “War Reserve Stockpile Authority.” It stipulates that “Section 514(b)(2)(A) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2321h(b)(2)(A)) is amended by striking ‘2028’ and inserting ‘2029’”.
Part (c)(2) lays out perennial limitations related to landmines and cluster munitions.

Section 7037: Palestinian statehood — Perennial provision barring (with extensive language) assistance to a Palestinian state that does not meet a series of conditions (includes perennial Presidential waiver authority). It also includes: “The restriction in subsection (a) shall not apply to assistance intended to help reform the Palestinian Authority and affiliated institutions, or the governing entity, in order to help meet the requirements of subsection (a), consistent with the provisions of section 7040 of this Act (‘Limitation on Assistance for the Palestinian Authority’)”

Section 7038: Prohibition on Assistance to the Palestinian Broadcasting Corp — Perennial provision (dating back many many years) barring any U.S. assistance to the Palestinian Broadcasting Corporation.

Section 7039: Assistance for the West Bank and Gaza (perennial)

[REMINDER: The bill does not earmark any funding for the West Bank and Gaza, but as always, it includes layer upon layer upon layer of conditions, restrictions, limits, oversight, auditing, vetting, etc. related to such funding]

Part (a): OVERSIGHT – this sub-section stipulates that “For fiscal year 2027, 30 days prior to the initial obligation of funds for the bilateral West Bank and Gaza Program, the Secretary of State shall certify to the Committees on Appropriations that procedures have been established to assure the Comptroller General of the United States will have access to appropriate United States financial information in order to review the uses of United States assistance for the Program funded under the heading ‘National Security Investment Programs’ [formerly known as Economic Support Funds] for the West Bank and Gaza.”
Part (b): VETTING – this sub-section stipulates that “Prior to the obligation of funds appropriated by this Act under the heading ‘National Security Investment Programs’ for assistance for the West Bank and Gaza, the Secretary of State shall take all appropriate steps to ensure that such assistance is not provided to or through any individual, private or government entity, or educational institution that the Secretary knows or has reason to believe advocates, plans, sponsors, engages in, or has engaged in, terrorist activity nor, with respect to private entities or educational institutions, those that have as a principal officer of the entity’s governing board or governing board of trustees any individual that has been determined to be involved in, or advocating terrorist activity or determined to be a member of a designated foreign terrorist organization: Provided, That the Secretary of State shall, as appropriate, establish procedures specifying the steps to be taken in carrying out this subsection and shall terminate assistance to any individual, entity, or educational institution which the Secretary has determined to be involved in or advocating terrorist activity.”
Part (c): PROHIBITION – This subsection bars use of funds for the West Bank and Gaza being used for: “(A) the purpose of recognizing or otherwise honoring individuals who commit, or have committed acts of terrorism; and (B) any educational institution located in the West Bank or Gaza that is named after an individual who the Secretary of State determines has committed an act of terrorism.” It also bars funding for security assistance for the West Bank and Gaza and requires the Secretary of State report to Congress on “(A) the benchmarks that have been established for security assistance for the West Bank and Gaza and on the extent of Palestinian compliance with such benchmarks; and (B) the steps being taken by the Palestinian Authority to end torture and other cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment of detainees, including by bringing to justice members of Palestinian security forces who commit such crimes.”
Part (d): OVERSIGHT BY THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE – this subsection stipulates that, “(1) The Secretary of State shall ensure that Federal or non-Federal audits of all contractors and grantees, and significant subcontractors and subgrantees, under the West Bank and Gaza Program, are conducted at least on an annual basis to ensure, among other things, compliance with this section. (2) Of the funds appropriated by this Act, up to $1,400,000 may be used by the Offices of Inspector General funded under title II of this Act for audits, investigations, and other activities in furtherance of the requirements of this subsection: Provided, That such funds are in addition to funds otherwise available for such purposes.” It further requires that “Subsequent to the certification specified in subsection (a), the Comptroller General of the United States shall conduct an audit and an investigation of the treatment, handling, and uses of all funds for the bilateral West Bank and Gaza Program, including all funds provided as cash transfer assistance, in fiscal year 2027 under the heading ‘‘National Security Investment Programs’’, and such audit shall address—(1) the extent to which such Program complies with the requirements of subsections (b) and (c); and (2) an examination of all programs, projects, and activities carried out under such Program, including both obligations and expenditures.
Part (f): NOTIFICATION – this subsection states that “Funds made available in this Act for West Bank and Gaza shall be subject to the regular notification procedures of the Committees on Appropriations.”

Section 7040: Limitation on Assistance to the Palestinian Authority (perennial)

>Prohibiting aid to the PA: Part (a) bars any funds from this act being used to provide funding to the Palestinian Authority.

>Waiver of Prohibition on Aid to the PA (but not really): Part (b) enables the President to waive the ban in (a) if he certifies to Congress that doing so “is important to the national security interest of the United States.” [Don’t let this fool you. Part (e), below, turns what otherwise looks like a clean national security waiver into an exercise in which the Executive’s ability to support/defend/promote US national security is made conditional on factors that are outside US control; as in, if the Secretary of State cannot make the certification required under part (e) of this section, the president cannot exercise the “waiver” provided under part (b) of this section, US national security be damned].

>Limitations on that supposed waiver:

Part (c) stipulates that any waiver under (b) “shall be effective for no more than a period of 6 months at a time and shall not apply beyond 12 months after the enactment of this Act.”
Part (d) requires a report to Congress from the President in conjunction with any use of the waiver in part (b), detailing “the justification for the waiver, the purposes for which the funds will be spent, and the accounting procedures in place to ensure that the funds are properly disbursed” and also detailing “the steps the Palestinian Authority has taken to arrest terrorists, confiscate weapons and dismantle the terrorist infrastructure.” And
Part (e) requires that in conjunction with any use of the waiver in part (b), the Secretary of State “must certify and report to the Committees on Appropriations prior to the obligation of funds that the Palestinian Authority has established a single treasury account for all Palestinian Authority financing and all financing mechanisms flow through this account, no parallel financing mechanisms exist outside of the Palestinian Authority treasury account, and there is a single comprehensive civil service roster and payroll, and the Palestinian Authority is acting to counter incitement of violence against Israelis and is supporting activities aimed at promoting peace, coexistence, and security cooperation with Israel.”

>Barring Aid to the PLO, Hamas, or any power-sharing govt: Part (f), is a long subsection entitled “Prohibition to Hamas and the Palestine Liberation Organization” (lumping together a U.S.-designated Foreign Terrorist Organization with the internationally recognized representative of the Palestinian people that is NOT on the list of U.S.-designated FTO since that list was first published in 1997).

This subsection bars funding to the PLO and bars funding for salaries of PA personnel in Gaza or for Hamas or any for entity “or any entity effectively controlled by Hamas, any power-sharing government of which Hamas is a member, or that results from an agreement with Hamas and over which Hamas exercises undue influence.” NOTE: The formulation in this legislation, which dates back to the Obama era, was explicitly designed to make it difficult for the U.S. engage any kind of Palestinian power-sharing government that could result from some future Fatah-Hamas reconciliation or from some other arrangements that lead to a national unity government or a mutually-agreed technocratic government (the text has evolved over the years in response to Palestinian efforts to achieve such governments).
The section includes language of past bills stipulating that the prohibition does not apply if the President “certifies and reports to the Committees on Appropriations that such government, including all of its ministers or such equivalent, has publicly accepted and is complying with the principles contained in section 620K(b)(1) (A) and (B) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended.” It also includes the proviso that, “the President may exercise the authority in section 620K(e) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as added by the Palestine Anti-Terrorism Act of 2006 (Public Law 109-446) with respect to this subsection.”
As a reminder, Section 620K(b)(1)(A) and (B) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, as amended, reads as follows: (b) Certification.–A certification described in subsection (a) is a certification transmitted by the President to Congress that contains a determination of the President that– (1) no ministry, agency, or instrumentality of the Palestinian Authority is effectively controlled by Hamas, unless the Hamas-controlled Palestinian Authority has– (A) publicly acknowledged the Jewish state of Israel’s right to exist; and (B) committed itself and is adhering to all previous agreements and understandings with the United States Government, with the Government of Israel, and with the international community, including agreements and understandings pursuant to the Performance-Based Roadmap to a Permanent Two-State Solution to the Israeli-Palestinian Conflict (commonly referred to as the `Roadmap’).
And 620K(e) reads as follows: (e) National Security Waiver.– (1) In general.–Subject to paragraph (2), the President may waive subsection (a) with respect to-(A) the administrative and personal security costs of the Office of the President of the Palestinian Authority; (B) the activities of the President of the Palestinian Authority to fulfill his or her duties as President, including to maintain control of the management and security of border crossings, to foster the Middle East peace process, and to promote democracy and the rule of law; and (C) assistance for the judiciary branch of the Palestinian Authority and other entities. (2) Certification.–The President may only exercise the waiver authority under paragraph (1) after– (A) consulting with, and submitting a written policy justification to, the appropriate congressional committees; and (B) certifying to the appropriate congressional committees that– (i) it is in the national security interest of the United States to provide assistance otherwise prohibited under subsection (a); and (ii) the individual or entity for which assistance is proposed to be provided is not a member of, or effectively controlled by (as the case may be), Hamas or any other foreign terrorist organization.”

Section 7041: Middle East and North Africa

>>>ABRAHAM ACCORDS<<<

The Committee notes the increased understanding, cooperation, and interfaith dialogue brought about by peace and normalization agreements between Israel and other Muslim-majority states, including the Abraham Accords, and encourages continued progress to expand these agreements, the Negev Forum, and other multilateral efforts. Following Hamas’ October 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel, the urgent need for regional unity, as well as economic and security cooperation, has become more apparent than ever. The Committee further notes the need for dedicated resources to implement the Israel Relations Normalization Act (division Z of Public Law 117–103) to deepen ties between Israel and Arab and Muslim-majority countries. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to ensure resources are available to leverage, strengthen, and expand existing peace and normalization agreements and establish new ones. The Secretary shall consult with the appropriate congressional committees on the availability of flexible resources and intended uses of such funds.

>>>ARAB LEAGUE BOYCOTT OF ISRAEL<<<

It is the sense of the Committee that: (1) the Arab League boycott of Israel and the secondary boycott of American firms that have commercial ties with Israel remain an impediment to trade and investment in the Middle East and should be terminated immediately, as should the Central Office for the Boycott of Israel; (2) several Arab and Muslim-majority states and Israel have made important progress toward peace through treaties and normalization agreements, including the Abraham Accords, which open a path toward a more stable and prosperous Middle East; (3) all Arab League states should join Egypt, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Morocco, and Sudan in establishing and normalizing relations with Israel, in addition to promoting peace negotiations, economic cooperation, and security cooperation between Israelis and Palestinians; (4) the President and the Secretary of State should continue to vigorously oppose the Arab League boycott of Israel; and (5) the President should support broadening and deepening participation in the Abraham Accords, and other normalization agreements, and report annually to the appropriate congressional committees on the United States strategy, including steps being taken by the United States to encourage additional Arab League and other Muslim-majority states to normalize relations with Israel, and the prospect of advancing peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

>>>BDS ANNUAL REPORT<<<

The Committee remains concerned about international efforts to stigmatize and isolate Israel through the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement. The Committee directs, as part of the report required under the heading ‘‘Arab League boycott of Israel’’, that the President add information about the BDS campaign, which shall cover companies, international organizations, countries, and other organizations, including state investment vehicles, that are involved in promoting the movement and specific steps the Secretary of State has taken or expects to take to discourage or end politically motivated efforts to boycott, divest from, or sanction Israel and Israeli entities. Such reporting requirement shall not be considered met by the requirements of section 909 of the Trade Facilitation and Trade Enforcement Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–125).

>>>COMBATING ANTISEMITISM & PROMOTING TOLERANCE <<<

Since Hamas’ October 7, 2023 terrorist attack on Israel, Jewish communities around the world have been subject to significant increases in antisemitism and violent attacks. Countering antisemitism in all its forms is in the national security interests of the United States. The Committee supports educational and cultural exchange initiatives that strengthen United States-Israel partnerships through institutions dedicated to promoting tolerance, combating antisemitism, and fostering cross-cultural understanding. Within the funds provided under Educational and Cultural Exchange Programs, the Committee encourages support for programming that engages students and community leaders in immersive, technologically driven experiences focused on navigating conflict, understanding differing perspectives, and building social cohesion. The Committee recommends that the Secretary of State prioritize partnerships with institutions that demonstrate a commitment to education, mutual respect, and citizen engagement between the United States and Israel.

>>>COMPLIANCE WITH THE TAYLOR FORCE ACT<<<

The Committee underscores the importance of full compliance with the restrictions of the Taylor Force Act (title X of division S of Public Law 115–141) and continued efforts to fully implement the law, including increasing diplomatic efforts to end the Palestinian Authority’s practice of paying salaries to terrorists in Israeli prisons and paying for acts of terrorism. None of the funds made available by this Act may be provided in contravention of the Taylor Force Act.

>>>7041(a) – EGYPT<<<

BILL TEXT

(1) ASSISTANCE. The bill text earmarks “not less than $1,425,000,000,” for Egypt, with the following stipulations/earmarks:

NSIP (formerly ESF): “not less than $125,000,000 shall be made available from funds under the heading ‘National Security Investment Programs”
FMF: “not less than $1,300,000,000 shall be made available from funds under the heading ‘Foreign Military Financing Program’: provided that, such funds may be transferred to an interest bearing account in the Federal Reserve Bank of New York.”

(2) MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING: “The Secretary of State shall prioritize diplomatic engagements on long-term planning to support the mutually beneficial United States-Egypt partnership, including with respect to United States international security assistance for Egypt.”

(3) CERTIFICATION AND REPORT.–The bill stipulates that “Funds appropriated by this Act that are available for assistance for Egypt may be made available notwithstanding any other provision of law restricting assistance for Egypt, except for this subsection and section 620M of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, and may only be made available for assistance for the Government of Egypt if the Secretary of State certifies and reports to the Committees on Appropriations that such government is–(A) sustaining the strategic relationship with the United States; and (B) meeting its obligations under the 1979 Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty.”

REPORT LANGUAGE – EGYPT:

The Committee notes that the United States and Egypt share a mutual interest in Middle East peace and stability, economic opportunity, and regional security. Since the Camp David Accords, United States assistance to Egypt has played an important role in the country’s economic and military development. The Committee recognizes the enduring Egypt-Israel peace agreement as well as Egypt’s ongoing efforts to combat terrorism and counter Iran’s malign influence in the region. Supporting a stable, democratic, and prosperous Egypt continues to be a core objective of United States foreign policy.
The Committee directs not less than $1,425,000,000 be made available for assistance for Egypt. The Committee further directs that $2,000,000 under Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs and $2,000,000 under International Military Education and Training be made available for Egypt.
The Committee supports the use of funds made available for Egypt to strengthen Egypt’s security capacity along its borders and enhance interoperability between Egyptian and United States forces.
The Committee directs that $40,000,000 of the funds appropriated under National Security Investment Programs and made available for assistance for Egypt be allocated for higher education programs in Egypt, including $17,500,000 for scholarships for Egyptian students with high financial need to attend not-for-profit institutions of higher education in Egypt that are currently accredited by a regional accrediting agency recognized by the United States Department of Education or meet standards equivalent to those required for United States institutional accreditation by a regional accrediting agency recognized by such Department. Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall brief the Committees on Appropriations on implementation of funds made available for scholarships in Egypt.

>>>7041(b) – IRAN<<<

BILL TEXT

“(1) Funding.–Funds appropriated by this Act under the headings ‘Diplomatic Programs’, ‘National Security Investment Programs’, and ‘Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs’ shall be made available–(A) to support the United States policy to prevent Iran from achieving the capability to produce or otherwise obtain a nuclear weapon; (B) to support an expeditious response to any violation of United Nations Security Council Resolutions or to efforts that advance Iran’s nuclear program; (C) to support the implementation and enforcement of sanctions against Iran for support of nuclear weapons development, terrorism, human rights abuses, and ballistic missile and weapons proliferation; and (D) for democracy programs in support of the aspirations of the Iranian people.

(2) REPORTS — (A) SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT.—The Secretary of State shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations the semi-annual report required by section 135(d)(4) of the Atomic Energy Act of 1954 (42 U.S.C. 2160e(d)(4)), as added by section 2 of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–17). (B) SANCTIONS REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Secretary of the Treasury, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on—(i) the status of United States bilateral sanctions on Iran; (ii) the reimposition and renewed enforcement of secondary sanctions; and (iii) the impact such sanctions have had on Iran’s destabilizing activities throughout the Middle East.”

(3) LIMITATIONS.– “None of the funds appropriated by this Act may be—(A) used to implement an agreement with the Government of Iran relating to the nuclear program of Iran, or a renewal of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action adopted on October 18, 2015, in contravention of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015 (42 U.S.C. 2160e); (B) made available to any foreign entity or person that is subject to United Nations or United States bilateral sanctions with respect to the Government of Iran; or (C) used to revoke the designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189).”

REPORT LANGUAGE – IRAN:

Subsection (b)(1) carries language directing that funds appropriated under Diplomatic Programs, National Security Investment Programs, and Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs be made available to support: (1) the United States policy to prevent Iran from achieving the capability to produce or otherwise obtain a nuclear weapon; (2) an expeditious response to any violation of United Nations Security Council resolutions or to efforts that advance Iran’s nuclear program; (3) the implementation, enforcement, and renewal of sanctions against Iran for its support of nuclear weapons development, terrorism, human rights abuses, and ballistic missile and weapons proliferation; and (4) democracy programs for Iran. The Committee directs that $2,000,000 above the prior year level be made available for the implementation, enforcement, and renewal of sanctions against Iran.
Pursuant to subsection (b)(3), none of the funds appropriated by this Act may be: (1) used to implement or enforce a nuclear agreement with Iran in contravention of the Iran Nuclear Agreement Review Act of 2015; (2) made available to any foreign entity that is subject to United Nations or United States sanctions with respect to Iran; or (3) used to revoke the designation of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to work with partners and allies to address the threat of Iran’s nuclear program and any further related proliferation risks. The Committee continues to emphasize that preventing Iran from achieving the capability to produce or otherwise obtain a nuclear weapon is vital to United States national security interests.
The Committee is deeply concerned by the significant loss of life and damage caused by Iran’s ballistic missile and drone attacks and support for terrorist proxies throughout the Middle East, including attacks on United States servicemembers, diplomatic personnel, and facilities. The Committee urges the Secretary of State to pursue policies, including strict enforcement of United States sanctions, to prevent Iran from threatening the United States, Israel, and our other partners and allies in the Middle East. The Committee is alarmed by the Iranian regime’s slaughter of protestors in Iran and crackdown on the Iranian people. The Committee continues to support the Iranian people’s desire for democracy and fundamental freedoms, including the right to elect the country’s leadership through free and fair elections.

>>>IRAQ<<<

The Committee continues to support assistance for Iraq in support of United States national security interests, particularly with respect to countering Iran’s malign activities and ensuring the enduring defeat of ISIS. Funds should be made available for: bilateral economic assistance and international security assistance, including in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq (KRI); stabilization assistance; humanitarian assistance, including in the KRI; programs to protect and assist religious and ethnic minority populations; and programs to increase United States private sector investment. Funds appropriated by this Act under title III and made available for bilateral economic assistance for Iraq may not be made available to any organization or entity that the Secretary of State has credible information is controlled by the Badr Organization. The Committee continues to support programs that assist in the creation of conditions for minorities in Iraq and Syria who were victims of genocide to safely return to, and remain in, their ancestral homeland.
The Committee directs the Secretary of State to ensure that assistance, including security assistance, intended for the KRI can be accessed and used in the KRI as planned.
Within the amount provided under National Security Investment Programs, the Committee directs $15,000,000 be made available to support American-style higher education institutions in Iraq, including in the KRI, on an open and competitive basis. Such funds should include support for non-degree and certificate granting programs at such institutions that equip graduates of universities, institutes, and secondary schools with the knowledge and skills required to obtain gainful employment in the private sector. The Secretary of State shall include funds to be allocated for this purpose in the spend plan submitted pursuant to section 7062(b) of this Act.

>>>7041(c) – ISRAEL<<<

“—Of the funds appropriated by this Act under the heading ‘Foreign Military Financing Program’, not less than $3,300,000,000 shall be available for grants only for Israel: Provided, That funds appropriated by this Act under the heading ‘Foreign Military Financing Program’ and made available for assistance for Israel shall be disbursed within 30 days of the date of enactment of this Act: Provided further, That to the extent that the Government of Israel requests that funds be used for such purposes, grants made available for Israel under this heading shall, as agreed by the United States and Israel, be available for advanced weapons systems, of which not less than $250,300,000 shall be available for the procurement in Israel of defense articles and defense services, including research and development.”

REPORT LANGUAGE – ISRAEL:

Subsection (c) directs not less than $3,300,000,000 in grants for military assistance under Foreign Military Financing Program be made available to Israel, which is the same as the budget request. Of the funds provided, not less than $250,300,000 shall be made available for the procurement in Israel of defense articles and defense services to the extent that the Government of Israel requests that funds be used for such purposes, consistent with the 2016 United States-Israel Memorandum of Understanding and the budget request. The Committee expects the Secretary of State to prioritize additional funds appropriated by this Act for Israel, as necessary, to address urgent security requirements.
The Committee reaffirms support of the 2016 United States-Israel Memorandum of Understanding, which demonstrates the United States’ unwavering commitment to the security of Israel and to ensuring that Israel’s qualitative military edge and defense capabilities are maintained. The Committee strongly believes in the right and ability of Israel to defend itself against the wide range of threats it faces and believes that a close United States-Israel security partnership benefits the interests of both countries.
The Committee further believes that by contributing to a safe and secure Israel, United States assistance positively contributes to any progress towards peace achieved through direct negotiations between Israel and the Palestinians.
The Committee notes that Congress previously provided emergency supplemental funds for Israel, including humanitarian assistance. The Committee directs funds to be made available to address humanitarian needs in Israel, such as safe medical transport, in light of continued attacks on the civilian population, including ballistic missile and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attacks from Iran and its proxies. Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the use of such funds.
The Committee supports historical, archaeological, and cultural initiatives, including in Jerusalem, that strengthen and deepen the United States-Israel special relationship. The Committee notes that the City of David in Biblical Jerusalem has been recognized by the United States Commission for the Preservation of America’s Heritage Abroad. Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on plans to fund and implement such initiatives and directs funds be made available for such purposes at not less than the prior year level.

>>>7041(d) – JORDAN<<<

BILL TEXT: “(1) Of the funds appropriated by this Act under titles III and IV, not less than $1,650,000,000 shall be made available for assistance for Jordan, of which not less than $845,100,000 shall be made available for budget support for the Government of Jordan and not less than $425,000,000 shall be made available under the heading ‘Foreign Military Financing Program’. (2) In addition to amounts made available pursuant to paragraph (1), not less than $400,000,000 of the funds appropriated under the heading ‘National Security Investment Programs’ shall be made available for assistance for Jordan, which shall be made available for budget support, and not less than $50,000,000 of the funds appropriated under the heading ‘Foreign Military Financing Program’ shall be made available for assistance for Jordan.”

The report adds: Section 7041(d)(1) directs not less than $1,650,000,000 be made available for Jordan from funds under titles III and IV, including not less than $845,100,000 for budget support for the Government of Jordan from funds under this heading. Section 7041(d)(2) provides an additional $400,000,000 of funds appropriated under this heading for Jordan to respond to extraordinary needs resulting from the prolonged conflict in the Middle East. Jordan is a key United States partner that provides indispensable support for United States interests in the Middle East. Ensuring Jordan’s stability is important to United States national security.

REPORT LANGUAGE – JORDAN:

Section 7041(d)(1) directs not less than $1,650,000,000 be made available for Jordan from funds under titles III and IV, including not less than $845,100,000 for budget support for the Government of Jordan from funds under this heading. Section 7041(d)(2) provides an additional $400,000,000 of funds appropriated under this heading for Jordan to respond to extraordinary needs resulting from the prolonged conflict in the Middle East. Jordan is a key United States partner that provides indispensable support for United States interests in the Middle East. Ensuring Jordan’s stability is important to United States national security.
The Committee notes the importance of the United States relationship with the Kingdom of Jordan and the strong leadership role that Jordan continues to play in advancing peace and stability in the region. The Secretary of State shall continue to support economic reforms, including through budget support, to help ensure Jordan’s long-term stability and help mitigate the impact of hosting large numbers of refugees.
Subsection (d)(1) directs not less than $1,650,000,000 for assistance for Jordan. Of the total amount provided, the Committee directs that not less than $2,500,000 be made available from International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement, $10,400,000 be made available from Nonproliferation, Anti-terrorism, Demining and Related Programs, and $3,800,000 be made available from International Military Education and Training.
Subsection (d)(2) provides an additional $450,000,000 from funds appropriated by this Act for assistance for Jordan to address urgent needs resulting from the malign activities of Iran and its proxies.
Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary shall consult with the appropriate congressional committees on humanitarian assistance for Jordan.

>>>7041(e) – LEBANON<<<

BILL TEXT

The bill imposed an overarching limitation on all aid to Lebanon: “None of the funds appropriated by this Act may be made available for the Lebanese Internal Security Forces (ISF) or the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) if the ISF or the LAF is controlled by a foreign terrorist organization, as designated pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189).”

The bill puts multiple stipulations on security assistance (FMF & INCLE) for Lebanon: (A) Funds appropriated by this Act under the headings “International Narcotics Control and Law Enforcement” and “Foreign Military Financing Program” that are made available for assistance for Lebanon may be made available for programs and equipment for the ISF and the LAF to address security and stability requirements in areas affected by conflict in Syria, following consultation with the appropriate congressional committees. (B) Funds appropriated by this Act under the heading “Foreign Military Financing Program” that are made available for assistance for Lebanon may only be made available for programs to—(i) professionalize the LAF to mitigate internal and external threats from non-state actors, including Hizballah; (ii) strengthen the security of borders and combat terrorism, including training and equipping the LAF to secure the borders of Lebanon and address security and stability requirements in areas affected by conflict in Syria, interdicting arms shipments, and preventing the use of Lebanon as a safe haven for terrorist groups; and (iii) implement United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701: Provided, That prior to obligating funds made available by this subparagraph for assistance for the LAF, the Secretary of State shall submit to the Committees on Appropriations a spend plan, including actions to be taken to ensure equipment provided to the LAF is used only for the intended purposes, except such plan may not be considered as meeting the notification requirements under section 7015 of this Act or under section 634A of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961: Provided further, That any notification submitted pursuant to such section shall include any funds specifically intended for lethal military equipment.

REPORT LANGUAGE – LEBANON:

Subsection (e) is modified from the prior year by deleting language making non-security assistance for Lebanon available notwithstanding any other provision of law. The bill continues the requirement that certain conditions be met prior to the obligation of Foreign Military Financing Program funds for Lebanon. The Committee intends that assistance provided to the Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) may not be used against Israel and may not affect Israel’s qualitative military edge in the region. The Committee notes that paragraph (1) of this subsection prohibits funds for the Lebanese Internal Security Forces or the LAF if either organization is controlled by a Foreign Terrorist Organization, and the Committee directs the Secretary of State to regularly consult with the Committees on Appropriations regarding the rigorous implementation of this provision, the activities of the LAF, and assistance provided by the United States.
The Committee notes the important and enduring partnerships with institutions of higher education in Lebanon. The Committee directs that support be continued at not less than the prior year level under National Security Investment Programs for the Lebanon scholarship program and the undergraduate and graduate scholarship program for refugees in Lebanon. The Secretary is directed to consult with the Committees on Appropriations on an ongoing basis regarding how the programs will be administered by not-for-profit educational institutions in Lebanon that meet the standards required for American accreditation and other matters related to implementation.

>>>MIDDLE EAST PARTNERSHIP INITIATIVE<<<

The Committee directs funding for the Middle East Partnership Initiative (MEPI) to support programs consistent with prior fiscal years. Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the allocation of funds provided for MEPI under National Security Investment Programs and funds made available pursuant to section 7060(a)(2) of this Act.

>>>MOROCCO<<<

The Committee continues assistance for Morocco in support of United States national security interests and directs not less than $20,000,000 under National Security Investment Programs and not less than $20,000,000 under Foreign Military Financing Program.
The Committee notes the historic alliance between the United States and Morocco, as formalized in 1786 by the Moroccan-American Treaty of Peace and Friendship. The Committee notes that the Spanish-administered cities of Ceuta and Melilla are located in Moroccan territory and remain the subject of Morocco’s longstanding claim. The Committee supports efforts by the Secretary of State to encourage diplomatic engagement between Morocco and Spain on the future status of Ceuta and Melilla.

>>>7041(f) – SYRIA<<<

BILL TEXT

“(1) NON-LETHAL ASSISTANCE.—Funds appropriated by this Act under titles III and IV may be made available, notwithstanding any other provision of law, for non-lethal stabilization assistance for Syria, including for emergency medical and rescue response and chemical weapons investigations.

(2) LIMITATIONS.—Funds appropriated by this Act and made available for assistance for Syria may not be made available for—(A) a project or activity that supports or otherwise legitimizes the Government of Iran, foreign terrorist organizations (as designated pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189)), or a proxy of Iran in Syria; and (B) activities that further the strategic objectives of the Government of the Russian Federation that the Secretary of State determines may threaten or undermine United States national security interests.

(3) CONSULTATION.—Funds appropriated by this Act and prior Acts making appropriations for the Department of State, foreign operations, and related programs that are made available for any new program, project, or activity in Syria shall be subject to prior consultation with the appropriate congressional committees.”

REPORT LANGUAGE – SYRIA:

The Committee directs the Secretary of State to take all practicable steps to ensure that mechanisms are in place for monitoring, oversight, and control of any assistance provided inside Syria and notes that section 7015(j), which requires prompt notification of any assistance diverted or destroyed, applies to funds made available for such assistance for Syria. Pursuant to section 7015(f), funds may not be obligated or expended for assistance for Syria except as provided through the regular notification procedures of the Committees on Appropriations.
The Committee notes that remnants of the Assad regime and associated forces remain in Syria and continue to have financial interests within parts of Syria. Any United States assistance made available for Syria should be programmed in a way that does not benefit such entities.
The Committee encourages the Secretary to continue efforts to ensure that Syria is stable, at peace with its neighbors, and protects the rights of all ethnic and religious minority groups in Syria. The Committee supports funds appropriated by this Act under titles III and IV being used for programs to document war crimes and crimes against humanity in Syria.
The Committee recognizes the longtime efforts of local Syrian and diaspora organizations, as well as relief organizations, to implement lifesaving interventions in Syria, including support for emergency medical and rescue response and chemical weapons investigations. The Committee urges the Secretary, within the requirements of this Act, to ensure continued delivery of humanitarian aid into and within Syria.

>>>7041(h) – WEST BANK & GAZA<<<

Part (1)(A) — Barring Aid to the PA: Perennial language (dating back to the Obama era) using aid to punish the Palestinians for diplomatic efforts at the UN or seeking protection/accountability under international law, by barring any NSIP (formerly ESF) for the Palestinian Authority if, after the date this bill becomes law, “the Palestinians obtain the same standing as member states or full membership as a state in the United Nations or any specialized agency thereof outside an agreement negotiated between Israel and the Palestinians”or if “the Palestinians initiate an International Criminal Court (ICC) judicially authorized investigation, or actively support such an investigation, that subjects Israeli nationals to an investigation for alleged crimes against Palestinians”. The bill includes no waiver of any kind for either of these restrictions, even if the President were to decide it was necessary for U.S. national security.

Part (1)(B) — Preventing the PLO Office from Re-Opening in the U.S.: Perennial language limiting the President’s ability to waive longstanding (and anachronistic) legislation barring the PLO from having any representation in the United States. Where for decades Congress granted the President a “clean” national security or national interests waiver of that prohibition (contained in section 1003 of Public Law 100-204), starting in the Obama era Congress moved to punish the Palestinians for diplomatic efforts at the UN or seeking protection/accountability under international law by making such waiver contingent on the President certifying that the Palestinians have not, after the date of enactment of this Act, “obtained in the United Nations or any specialized agency thereof the same standing as member states or full membership as a state outside an agreement negotiated between Israel and the Palestinians” or “initiated or actively supported an ICC investigation against Israeli nationals for alleged crimes against Palestinians” or “initiated any further action, whether directly or indirectly, based on an Advisory Opinion of the International Court of Justice that undermines direct negotiations to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, including matters related to final status and Israel’s longstanding security rights and responsibilities.” This section includes a Presidential waiver, under which the President can permit the office to open even if the conditions are not met, but only if he can certify that “the Palestinians have entered into direct and meaningful negotiations with Israel” [so there is not even a pretense that US national security would be a reason for a waiver…].

Part (1)(C) — Barring funding to State Department’s Office of Palestinian Affairs: Stipulates that “None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act may be made available for the Office of Palestinian Affairs, Department of State.”

Part (2) — Missing [This appears to be a drafting error. Part 1 of this section was previously a report to Congress required before the obligation of aid for the West Bank and Gaza, in which the Secretary had to report that the purpose of the assistance was to “(A) advance Middle East peace; (B) improve security in the region; (C) continue support for transparent and accountable government institutions; (D) promote a private sector economy; or (E) address urgent humanitarian needs.” That report has been eliminated in this new bill, and the section renumbered (incorrectly)]

Part (3) Gaza Oversight

Part (3)(A) — CERTIFICATION/REPORT: Within 15 days of this Act becoming law, the Secretary of State certify/report to Congress that “(i) oversight policies, processes, and procedures have been established by the Department of State and are in use to prevent the diversion to Hamas and other terrorist and extremist entities in Gaza and the misuse or destruction by such entities of assistance, including through international organizations; and (ii) such policies, processes, and procedures have been developed in coordination with other bilateral and multilateral donors and the Government of Israel, as appropriate.”
Part (3)(B) — OVERSIGHT POLICIES AND PROCEDURES: The Secretary of State submit to Congress “a written description of the oversight policies, processes, and procedures for funds appropriated by this Act that are made available for assistance for Gaza, including specific actions to be taken should such assistance be diverted, misused, or destroyed, and the role of the Government of Israel in the oversight of such assistance.”
Part (3)(C) — REQUIREMENT TO INFORM: the Secretary of State shall “promptly inform the appropriate congressional committees of each instance in which funds appropriated by this Act that are made available for assistance for Gaza have been diverted, misused, or destroyed, to include the type of assistance, a description of the incident and parties involved, and an explanation of the response of the Department of State.”
Part (3)(D) THIRD PARTY MONITORING: funds from this Act “shall be made available for third party monitoring of assistance for Gaza, including end use monitoring, following consultation with the appropriate congressional committees”
Part (3)(E) — REPORT: “Not later than 90 days after the initial obligation of funds appropriated by this Act that are made available for assistance for Gaza, and every 90 days thereafter until all such funds are expended, the Secretary of State shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report detailing the amount and purpose of such assistance provided during each respective quarter, including a description of the specific entity implementing such assistance.”
Part (3)(F) — ASSESSMENT: every 90 days, “the Secretary of State, in consultation with the Director of National Intelligence and other heads of elements of the intelligence community that the Secretary considers relevant, shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report assessing whether funds appropriated by this Act and made available for assistance for the West Bank and Gaza have been diverted to or destroyed by Hamas or other terrorist and extremist entities in the West Bank and Gaza: Provided, That such report shall include details on the amount and how such funds were made available and used by such entities: Provided further, That such report may be submitted in classified form, if necessary”
Part (3)(G) — CONSULTATION: “Not later than 30 days after the date of enactment of this Act but prior to the initial obligation of funds made available by this Act for humanitarian assistance for Gaza, the Secretary of State shall consult with the Committees on Appropriations on the amount and anticipated uses of such funds.”
Part (3)(H) — LIMITATION ON FOREIGN NATIONALS FROM GAZA: “None of the funds appropriated by this Act and prior Acts making appropriations for national security, Department of State, and related programs under title III may be used to support the admission and resettlement into the United States of a foreign national from Gaza.”

Part (4) — APPLICATION OF TAYLOR FORCE ACT: “Funds appropriated by this Act under the heading “National Security Investment Programs” that are made available for assistance for the West Bank and Gaza shall be made available consistent with section 1004(a) of the Taylor Force Act (title X of division S of Public Law 115–141).”

Part (5) — SECURITY REPORT:“The reporting requirements in section 1404 of the Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2008 (Public Law 110–252) shall apply to funds made available by this Act, including a description of modifications, if any, to the security strategy of the Palestinian Authority.”

Part (6) — INCITEMENT REPORT: “Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees detailing steps taken by the Palestinian Authority to counter incitement of violence against Israelis and to promote peace and coexistence with Israel.” [The bill of course nowhere acknowledges, let alone calls for action to address, the non-stop genocidal, racist, violent, dehumanizing, hateful rhetoric and incitement that is being produced every by Israeli politicians, media figures, active-duty soldiers, and hasbara heroes – and disseminated by them, giddily, on media and social media pretty much every day since October 7th].

REPORT LANGUAGE – WEST BANK & GAZA:

Subsection (g) includes language modified from the prior year regarding conditions related to the West Bank and Gaza.
This Act includes enhanced oversight requirements in sections 7048(k) and 7049, including oversight access agreements applicable to Inspectors General funded under title II of this Act and compliance requirements for investigations conducted pursuant to such sections. The Committee directs the Inspectors General funded under title II of this Act to prioritize oversight of risks related to material support to terrorists, including in high-risk environments such as Gaza, and to identify designated terrorists within implementing organizations. The Committee expects that any individual employed by a United States-funded entity who is determined to be a member of a designated terrorist organization, or any United States-funded entity that knowingly employed such an individual, shall be referred expeditiously for the appropriate criminal and administrative remedies. The Committee notes that such enhanced oversight has already contributed to the suspension or removal of a former employee of a United Nations entity who was a member of a terrorist organization and participated in the October 7, 2023 attacks in Israel, in which Hamas and associated terrorist groups murdered more than 40 American citizens.
The Committee recognizes the efforts by the Board of Peace to promote security and stability in Gaza. United States contributions to the Board of Peace shall comply with all applicable restrictions in United States law regarding assistance for the Palestinians and for West Bank and Gaza, including restrictions contained in this Act. Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall brief the Committees on Appropriations on the activities of the Board of Peace.
The Committee supports the work of the East Jerusalem Hospital Network and encourages the Secretary to consider providing funds for the East Jerusalem Hospital Network, consistent with the Taylor Force Act and in consideration of the national security interests of the United States.
The Committee directs the Secretary to promptly inform the appropriate congressional committees of any alleged incident involving any United States assistance used in such a way that adversely affects or jeopardizes such assistance. This includes any incidents where United States assistance has directly or indirectly been provided to an individual or organization with ties to terrorism or incitement of violence. This includes assistance implemented by United Nations agencies and other international organizations. In such instances, the Committee directs the Secretary to promptly inform the appropriate congressional committees of the specific investigative and corrective measures that the Secretary will take in response to these incidents.
The Committee notes that the BDS movement has engaged in the spread of anti-Israel sentiment and antisemitism. The Secretary shall expand vetting policies and practices to ensure that United States assistance is not provided to or through any individual, private entity, government entity, or educational institution that the Secretary knows or has reason to believe advocates, plans, sponsors, engages in, or has engaged in, the BDS movement. The Committee directs the Secretary to strengthen policies and procedures to ensure organizations supported through funding are not participants in the BDS movement, are not glorifying violence, or are not providing support for lawfare against the United States or Israel at the International Criminal Court (ICC) or International Court of Justice (ICJ).
The Committee notes previous allegations of assistance provided to individuals or entities that cooperate with designated entities or engage in political activities and directs the Secretary to expand vetting policies and practices to include an assessment of political neutrality and a review of statements by individuals or organizations that constitute engagement in political advocacy, incitement, or support for terrorism that would cause operational and reputational risks for the United States Government.

>>>Reports<<<

BDS vetting.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall update the report required under this heading in section 7041 of House Report 118–146 on steps taken to expand vetting policies and procedures to ensure that organizations receiving United States assistance do not directly or indirectly participate in or promote the BDS movement.
Captagon.—Not later than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State, in consultation with the heads of other relevant Federal agencies, shall report to the appropriate congressional committees on efforts to disrupt and dismantle production and trafficking of illicit drugs in the Middle East, including Captagon, methamphetamine, and other amphetamine-type stimulants. Such report shall include: (1) the identification of the countries that are producing, receiving, or transiting large shipments of such drugs; (2) an assessment of the counter-narcotics capacity of such countries to interdict or disrupt the smuggling, trafficking, and production of such drugs; (3) an assessment of current United States diplomatic efforts and foreign assistance programs to build counter-narcotics capacity in such countries; (4) an assessment of cooperation with international partners to disrupt narcotics infrastructure in the Middle East and identification of options to improve such cooperation; and (5) the identification of actors involved in Captagon, methamphetamine, and amphetamine-type stimulant production and trafficking networks, including those linked to the former regime of Bashar al-Assad, Hezbollah, and Iran-backed proxies.
Iran sanctions.—The Committee is concerned by Iran’s ongoing efforts to evade United States and international sanctions. The report required pursuant to subsection (b)(2)(B) shall also provide an assessment of Iran’s existing sources of revenue and whether such revenue is derived from transactions with potentially sanctionable entities that have not yet been designated.
Prisoner payments.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees on the status of negotiating an end to the Palestinian Authority’s practice of paying salaries to terrorists and families of terrorists serving in prison and other forms of such support for terrorists and terrorism.
Religious and ethnic minorities in Syria.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the appropriate congressional committees assessing the treatment of religious and ethnic minorities in Syria, including Christians, Druze, Alawites, and Kurds, during the prior year and whether the Government of Syria has taken all sufficient actions to ensure protections for religious and ethnic minorities in Syria.
Religious freedom.—Not later than 90 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall update the report required under this heading in section 7041 of House Report 117– 84 concerning the treatment of Christian communities in Egypt.
Twenty-point plan.—The Committee supports the Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict, including the objectives to disarm Hamas, prevent Gaza from posing a threat to the region, establish transitional governance, create economic opportunity, and support people-to-people programs. Not later than 60 days after the date of enactment of this Act, and every 90 days thereafter until September 30, 2027, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations on the progress made towards implementation of the twenty-point plan and the use of funds appropriated by this Act to achieve such progress.

Section 7041: Africa

South Africa.—The Committee notes that the United States has provided significant financial support to the people of South Africa while the Government of South Africa has worked in direct opposition to United States and partner nation interests, including through military and economic cooperation with the Russian Federation, the PRC, and Iran; pursuing baseless charges of genocide against Israel, not Hamas, at the International Court of Justice; and participating in the practice of human trafficking through the use of Cuban doctors. Therefore, subsection (c) prohibits funds to the Government of South Africa unless the Secretary of State certifies and reports to the Committees on Appropriations that the Government of South Africa has met the following conditions: (1) ceased cooperation with United States adversaries; (2) ceased participating in human trafficking, such as the exploitation of Cuban medical professionals; and (3) ceased the implementation of policies that undermine inherent property rights of the citizens of South Africa

Section 7046: Europe and Eurasia

Part (c) of this section of the bill states — “TURKEY — The limitations and other provisions of section 7046(c) of the Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Appropriations Act, 2024 (division F of Public Law 118–47) shall continue in effect during fiscal year 2026 and apply to funds appropriated by this Act.” The referenced provision states: “None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to facilitate or support the sale of defense articles or defense services to the Turkish Presidential Protection Directorate (TPPD) under chapter 2 of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2761 et seq.) unless the Secretary of State determines and reports to the appropriate congressional committees that members of the TPPD who are named in the July 17, 2017, indictment by the Superior Court of the District of Columbia, and against whom there are pending charges, have returned to the United States to stand trial in connection with the offenses contained in such indictment or have otherwise been brought to justice: Provided, That the limitation in this paragraph shall not apply to the use of funds made available by this Act for border security purposes, for North Atlantic Treaty Organization or coalition operations, or to enhance the protection of United States officials and facilities in Turkey.”

Section 7048: United Nations

United Nations anti-Israel agenda.—The Committee urges the Secretary of State to declare that it is the policy of the United States to veto one-sided, anti-Israel resolutions at the United Nations Security Council.

Part (a) – Linking US Aid to how nations vote at the UN: “(1) In considering bilateral assistance for a foreign government, the Secretary of State should review, among other factors, the voting practices of such government in the United Nations in relation to United States strategic interests and whether such government supports the participation of Taiwan as an observer in meetings and activities of multilateral agencies, bodies, or commissions. (2) The Secretary of State shall consult with the United States Permanent Representative to the United Nations on the voting practices of foreign governments prior to the submission of the report required under section 653(a) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2413(a)).”

Part (b) – Withholding 15% of US funding to the UN & UN Agencies unless they satisfy a list of demands, including “taking credible steps to combat anti-Israel bias”: “Of the funds appropriated under title I and under the heading ‘International Organizations and Programs’ in title V of this Act that are available for contributions to the United Nations (including the Department of Peacekeeping Operations) or any United Nations agency, 15 percent may not be obligated for such organization, department, or agency until the Secretary of State determines and reports to the appropriate congressional committees that the organization, department, or agency is–…(4) taking credible steps to combat anti-Israel bias… (6) implementing policies and procedures to effectively vet staff for any affiliation with a terrorist organization.”

Accountability report.—In carrying out the requirement of subsection (b), the Secretary of State shall also consider and report on efforts to combat antisemitism. The report shall include a section on anti-Israel bias and antisemitism within international organizations, including specific instances across United Nations entities, such as those referenced under the heading ‘‘Anti-Israel bias at the United Nations’’ in title I of House Report 116–444. It shall assess whether such bias arises from member state actions or systemic behavior within international organizations, including that of staff, consultants, and appointed experts. The report shall also evaluate institutional practices that may compromise neutrality toward Israel, including, but not limited to: public statements by personnel, including on social media; the hiring or appointment of individuals with known prejudicial or hostile views toward Israel; rejecting information from Israel while accepting information from Hamas or other Palestinian terrorists for informing programmatic or policy decisions, such as famine declarations; and procedural mechanisms that disproportionately target or isolate Israel within United Nations bodies. Further, the report shall include an assessment of implementation and effectiveness of the United Nations Action Plan to Enhance Monitoring and Response to Antisemitism for the prior year. The report shall include recommendations on steps the United Nations should take to revise and strengthen its approach to combating antisemitism, including enforcing a clear and actionable definition of antisemitism and accountability mechanisms within its institutions, including for staff and senior leadership. …

Part (c) – Restrictions linked to UN delegations/organizations alleged to support international terror: “(1) None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to pay expenses for any United States delegation to any specialized agency, body, or commission of the United Nations if such agency, body, or commission is chaired or presided over by a country, the government of which the Secretary of State has determined, for purposes of section 1754(c) of the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4813(c)), supports international terrorism. (2) None of the funds made available by this Act may be used by the Secretary of State as a contribution to any organization, agency, commission, or program within the United Nations system if such organization, agency, commission, or program is chaired or presided over by a country the government of which the Secretary of State has determined, for purposes of section 620A of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, section 40 of the Arms Export Control Act, section 1754(c) of the Export Control Reform Act of 2018 (50 U.S.C. 4813(c)), or any other provision of law, is a government that has repeatedly provided support for acts of international terrorism.” [NOTE: PREVIOUS VERSIONS OF THIS PERENNIAL PROVISION INCLUDED AUTHORITY FOR THE SECRETARY OF STATE TO WAIVE THESE RESTRICTIONS IF DOING SO WAS DEEMED IMPORTANT TO U.S. NATIONAL INTEREST; THIS VERSION LEAVES OUT THAT WAIVER AUTHORITY]

Part (d) – No $$ for UN Human Rights Council & UN Commission of Inquiry on the OPT: “None of the funds appropriated by this Act and prior Acts making appropriations for national security, Department of State, and related programs may be made available for a contribution, grant, or other payment to the United Nations Human Rights Council, including the United Nations International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel; and the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, notwithstanding any other provision of law.”

United Nations Human Rights Council.—The Committee notes the continued lack of progress at the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) towards meaningful reforms to restore its credibility as a human rights body. UNHRC continues to elevate, legitimize, and shield the worst human rights offenders while simultaneously targeting Israel with unjustified scrutiny. Therefore, the Committee prohibits funds to UNHRC.
Subsection (d) prohibits funds in this Act and prior acts making appropriations for national security, Department of State, and related programs for the United Nations International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and Israel.
The Committee finds that the bias and ineffectiveness of the UNHRC is not limited to the politics of member states but is also deeply embedded within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), which supports the work of the UNHRC. The Committee opposes the practice of member states, such as the PRC, to provide voluntary contributions to OHCHR to fund biased United Nations Special Rapporteurs that issue statements and reports that undermine the purpose of the Council and are used to harass rights-defending member states, such as the United States and Israel, rather than uphold universal human rights principles. The Committee believes such conduct undermines the impartiality, credibility, and mission of OHCHR, and the broader United Nations human rights system, and therefore includes OHCHR in its prohibition for funding the UNHRC.

Part (e) – De-funding UNRWA: “None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act and prior Acts making appropriations for national security, Department of State, and related programs may be made available—(1) for a contribution, grant, or other payment to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), notwithstanding any other provision of law; or (2) to solicit or otherwise encourage funds for UNRWA from other donors and sources, notwithstanding any other provision of law.”

United Nations Relief and Works Agency.—Subsection (e) prohibits voluntary contributions and assessed funds for UNRWA. The Committee notes that UNRWA has been compromised by staff who have promoted incitement to violence, antisemitism, and the destruction of the State of Israel. The Committee is concerned by UNRWA’s relationship with Hamas and other terrorist organizations, including credible allegations that several UNRWA staff participated in the October 7, 2023 massacre that killed over 1,200 people, including American citizens, and was the worst attack on the Jewish people since the Holocaust. Further, the Committee is concerned by the use of UNRWA facilities to shield Hamas infrastructure, such as the Hamas data center under UNRWA’s Gaza headquarters. The Committee urges the Secretary of State to prioritize diplomatic efforts, including the use of the voice, vote, and influence of the United States at the United Nations, to discourage other countries from providing funds to UNRWA. The Committee further encourages the Secretary to pursue assistance options outside of UNRWA to ensure the stability of United States partners and allies in the Middle East and North Africa.
The Committee notes allegations that significant numbers of UNRWA staff celebrated the October 7, 2023 massacre on social media and that many UNRWA staff, including school principals and senior UNRWA management, are also members of terrorist organizations that violently tyrannize the Palestinian people, including by using them as human shields.
The Committee further notes that the OIG has obtained evidence linking UNRWA staff and resources to the October 7, 2023 attacks, which may have also been documented by a United Nations Office of Internal Oversight Services report. Any United Nations personnel who provided material support to terrorist entities must be held fully accountable, including through United States courts and administrative proceedings without claim to functional immunity.
The Committee condemns the ongoing protection the Secretary General of the United Nations provides to former United Nations staff who were fired for their role in the attacks that led to the torture and death of United States citizens. Further direction on the investigation of this criminal activity is provided in section 7049 of this Act.

Part (g) – Report on Withheld Funds: “Not later than 45 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary of State shall submit a report to the Committees on Appropriations detailing the amount of funds available for obligation or expenditure in fiscal year 2026 for contributions to any organization, department, agency, or program within the United Nations system or any international program that are withheld from obligation or expenditure due to any provision of law: Provided, That the Secretary shall update such report each time additional funds are withheld by operation of any provision of law: Provided further, That the reprogramming of any withheld funds identified in such report, including updates thereof, shall be subject to prior consultation with, and the regular notification procedures of, the Committees on Appropriations…”

Part (l) – banning funding to the ICC and ICJ (among others): this part lays out a list of things that may not be funding, including noting that no funds may be – “(4) made available for a contribution, grant, or other payment to the International Court of Justice, notwithstanding any other provision of law” or “(5) made available for a contribution, grant, or other payment to the International Criminal Court, notwithstanding any other provision of law”

International courts.—The Committee strongly condemns and unequivocally rejects one-sided, politicized, anti-Israel activity at the International Criminal Court (ICC) and the International Court of Justice (ICJ) and prohibits funds provided in this Act and prior acts for such courts. The Committee directs the Secretary of State to prioritize diplomatic efforts to prevent any further efforts to weaponize the ICC and ICJ against Israel. The Committee further endorses the Secretary’s designation of four ICC judges under Executive Order 14203, relating to Imposing Sanctions on the International Criminal Court, which imposed sanctions due to their direct involvement in unauthorized investigations and prosecutions of Americans and Israeli nationals.
International organizations.—The Committee recommendation does not include funds for the United Nations Environment Programme, United Nations Special Rapporteurs, or World Economic Forum.

***NEW***Section 7049: United Nations Relief and Works Agency and Justice for Victims ***NEW***

[Note: Part (a) of this section is an expanded version of a section that showed up for the first time in the House Appropriations Committee’s base version of the NSRP bill last year (Section 7067); part (b) is an expanded version of a different section that showed up for the first time in the House bill – – Section 7066(h). Neither part made it into the the bill as passed by into law.]

Part (a) – Conditioning UN funding on the UN allowing the UN staff to be prosecuted in U.S. courts: “None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act or prior Acts making appropriations for national security, Department of State, and related programs may be obligated or expended for the Secretariat of the United Nations or any affiliated office, agency, fund, program, or other entity thereof until the Secretary of State certifies and reports to the appropriate congressional committees that the Secretary-General of the United Nations has provided written assurance to the Secretary that privileges, exemptions, and immunities will not be asserted for any staff member, consultant, or contractor of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East or any other United Nations entity in cases involving— (1) gross violations of human rights; (2) an act of terrorism; (3) participation in, or the provision of material support or resources to, a foreign terrorist organization, or to any individual or entity designated pursuant to United States law or Executive order relating to terrorism or sanctions; or (4) other serious criminal conduct under United States law, including corruption-related offenses, where such conduct fall outside the scope of official duties.”

Part (b) – Conditioning U.S. funding (“received directly or indirectly”) to ANYONE AND EVERYONE on full cooperation with the U.S. in its efforts to ensure “justice” for Israel/Israelis targeting by Hamas on 10/7/23 [including US sanctions targeting the ICC for DARING to hold both Hamas and Israeli leaders accountable for violations of international law on and since 10/7/23]:

(b)(1) – “None of the funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act or prior Acts making appropriations for national security, Department of State, and related programs may be made available for a covered entity if the Inspectors General funded under title II of this Act informs the Secretary of State that such entity has failed, for a period of more than 90 days after receipt of a written request by a United States Inspector General, to provide oversight information requested by such Inspector General pertaining to—(A) an investigation of programs, projects, or activities in Gaza; (B) the events leading to the attacks in Israel on October 7, 2023, or (C) the provision of material support or resources to an organization or individual designated pursuant to United States law or Executive order relating to terrorism or sanctions.”
(b)(2) – “In this subsection, the term ‘’covered entity’ means any multilateral organization, nongovernmental organization, contractor, subcontractor, grantee, subgrantee, consultant, or other entity that directly or indirectly receives funds appropriated or otherwise made available by this Act or prior Acts making appropriations for national security, Department of State, and related programs to carry out activities in Gaza, or that has carried out such activities using such funds at any time during the 5-year period preceding the date of enactment of this Act.“

Report language:

This section includes new language related to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency, justice for victims of the October 7, 2023 attacks, and related matters.
The Committee remains concerned that United States-funded assistance for Gaza may be implemented by entities whose current, former, or prospective officers, employees, consultants, contractors, sub-recipients, or other personnel have ties to Hamas or other terrorist activity, including the October 7, 2023 attacks in Israel. The Committee notes that ongoing Inspector General investigations have already confirmed that a number of UNRWA-affiliated staff were Hamas members, including those who participated in or otherwise supported those attacks, and that at least one such individual has been debarred from working on United States-funded programs. The Committee further notes that the Inspector General has sought information from organizations operating in Gaza regarding staff, vetting practices, interference by Hamas and other armed actors, and interactions with Hamas, but that such requests have not consistently been fully answered, including with respect to personnel information and investigative records.
The Committee is aware that United States awards to United Nations and other public international organizations have not required prior vetting of personnel through a United States Government system and that reliance on internal United Nations screening mechanisms have proven insufficient to identify individuals affiliated with United States-designated terrorist organizations. Therefore, the Committee includes a limitation in this section to ensure that no funds are made available for a covered entity if, not later than 90 days after receiving a written request from a United States Inspector General for information relevant to such investigations, such entity has failed to provide the requested information and the Secretary of State has been informed as such by the Inspector General. The Committee notes that these requirements are necessary to protect taxpayer funds, preserve oversight authorities, prevent entities from withholding critical information while continuing to receive United States assistance, and protect United States national security interests.

Section 7051 – TORTURE AND OTHER CRUEL, INHUMAN, OR DEGRADING TREATMENT OR PUNISHMENT

“None of the funds made available by this Act may be used to support or justify the use of torture and other cruel, inhuman, or degrading treatment or punishment by any official or contract employee of the United States Government.”