FMEP Legislative Round-Up: April 29, 2022

Resource

1. Bills, Resolutions, Letters
2. Hearings
3. On the Record

New from FMEP this week:

*Brought to you in cooperation with Americans for Peace Now, where the Round-Up was born!

1. Bills, Resolutions & Letters

(BILL TOTALLY UNRELATED TO ISRAEL/MIDDLE EAST, BUT….) HR 4521: Introduced 7/19/21 by Johnson (D-TX), and having 101 cosponsors, the “Bioeconomy Research and Development Act of 2021.”  So why is this in the Round-Up?

>>Action in the House: As a reminder: HR 4521 was passed by the House 2/4/22, after being re-purposed as the “America COMPETES Act of 2022.” That bill included two Iran-related provisions (Sec. 30258, “Report and Briefing on Cooperation between China and Iran and between China and Russia; and Section 30283, “Sense of Congress on People’s Republic of China-Iran Relationship”). It also included Section 30282, “Sense Of Congress on Middle East & North Africa Engagement”, which states that it is US policy (among other things) to “promote greater regional integration and intraregional cooperation, including with Israel.” In addition, 3 Middle East-related amendments were adopted on the House floor: an amendment adding Iran to the list of prohibited “countries of concern” for the loans and loan guarantees under the proposed Critical Supply Chain Resilient Program; an amendment to add “potential opportunities for partnership with Israel and other regional nations in areas such as technological cooperation critical to national security as an element of the U.S. strategy for countering China in the Middle East”; and an unabashedly non-germane amendment directing “the Permanent Representative of the United States to the United Nations to use the voice, vote, and influence of the United States to remove Israel as a permanent agenda item and to bring an end to the ‘Commission of Inquiry’ to investigate the State of Israel.”  For details of all of this, see the 2/4/22 edition of the Round-Up.

>>Action in the Senate: On 3/28/22, the Senate took up HR 4521, replacing the entire House text with its own version. That text also includes some Middle East related items, notably Sec. 3258, requiring a report and briefing on cooperation between China and Iran and between China and Russia; and Sec. 2101, relating to National Science Foundation Technology and Innovations programs, which includes languages barring participation of any country “that takes actions to boycott, divest from, or sanction Israel.” It goes on to state that “‘actions to boycott, divest from, or sanction Israel’ has the meaning given such term in section 102(b)(20)(B) of the Bipartisan Congressional Trade Priorities and Accountability Act of 2015 (19 U.S.C. 4201(b)(20)(B)).” **As a reminder, the referenced law, signed by President Obama, explicitly conflates Israel and settlements, in effect meaning that countries that follow EU policy – which consistent with international law requires distinguishing between the sovereign state of Israel and Israeli settlements in occupied territories – are viewed as being guilty of boycotting/divesting from/sanctioning Israel. As warned (including by me) back in 2015, this Obama-approved law has indeed become a key building block in efforts by those who seek to shift U.S. policy to formally recognize/normalize settlements (thank you, Obama Admin!)**

>>What Next: Fast forward to this week, and HR 4521 is now headed to a House-Senate conference to iron out differences in the two versions. But before that can happen, there will be an effort by 2 senators to put Iran-related red lines on what Senate conferees are allowed to agree to in the compromise text, via “Motions to Instruct” (MTI) [measures that in effect giving marching orders to conferees]. Details of these 2 MTIs:

  • Lankford (R-OK) has submitted an MTI requiring that the final conference report include provisions under which any Iran deal must (a) address “the full range of Iran’s destabilizing activities, including development of the means of delivery for such weapons (such as ballistic missiles), support for terrorism, and evasion of sanctions by individuals, entities, and vessels in the trade of petroleum products with the People’s Republic of China”, (b) not lift sanctions on the IRGC, and (c) not take the IRGC off the FTO list. [This is clearly a poison-pill provision]. See Lankford’s press release (sporting a headline that shamelessly buries the lede]. Also see Lankford’s much more forthright Twitter thread, including: “…I want the conferees to hear from the Senate that we do not want the United States to make a nuclear deal with Iran that ignores their past behavior & their present intentions. This is a moment for Congress to push the Administration to demonstrate strength through decisive action, not weakness through negotiating with terrorist regimes.” [also on GETTR]
  • Cruz (R-TX) has submitted an MTI requiring a report identifying links between China and Iran, and limiting cooperation via terrorism-related sanctions imposed on the Central Bank of Iran and the IRGC. [This is potentially a poison-pill provision].

>>Final notes:  (1) normally MTI’s must be brought up before conferees are named; in this case, MTIs are being permitted by Unanimous Consent, and are expected to be voted on mid-week; (2) under the agreement that permits these MTIs to be considered, the Lankford poison pill MTI is subject to a 60-vote threshold to pass (rather than simple majority) — suggesting that Democrats are concerned that some of their caucus will vote with Republicans; and (3) Votes on these two MTI’s will be watched closely, as they may be a good indication of what a vote related to an actual Iran deal might look like, should a deal be reached (as in, folks will be watching closely to see which Democrats vote against).

(CONDITIONING/THREATENING TO CUT OFF AID TO A MIDDLE EAST ALLY) HR 7527: Introduced 4/14/22 (not previously reported in the Round-Up) by Steube (R-FL) and Scott (R-PA), the “Recognition of the 1995 Jordan Extradition Treaty with the U.S. Act.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. NOTE: This bill would cut off all US funding for Jordan unless Jordan extradites to the U.S. a Jordanian citizen, Ahlam Tamimi, who carried out a terrorist act in Israel (and was tried, convicted, jailed, and then released by Israel). Specifically, the bill states that: “no funds authorized to be appropriated or otherwise made available for any program, project, or activity in Jordan may be obligated or expended unless the President determines that the Government of Jordan has recognized the validity of the Extradition Treaty between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan.” It also would require the US to withdraw from the US-Jordan memorandum of understanding unless Tamimi is extradited to the U.S. for prosecution by US authorities. Also see:

  • Steube press release
  • Steube (R-FL-17) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “Our U.S. tax dollars will not continue to flow to a country harboring a Hamas Terrorist with American blood on her hands. I introduced legislation to hold the Government of Jordan accountable for their failure to extradite Ahlam al Tamimi. (also on GETTR)

(TARGETING IRANIAN DRONES) HR 6089 (final text substituted on House floor):  Introduced 11/30/21 by McCaul (R-TX) and having 77 cosponsors, the “Stop Iranian Drones Act,” aka, “To clarify that section 107 of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act applies sanctions with respect to unmanned combat aerial vehicles following a 2019 change by the United Nations providing additional clarity to the United Nations Register of Conventional Arms.” Passed by the House 4/27/22 by a vote of 424-2. Floor statements on the measure are here. Statements/tweets: Deutch (D-FL-22), Stefanik (R-NY-21), Demings (D-FL-10), Reschenthaler (R-PA-14), McCaul (R-TX), Bacon (R-NE-2), Reschenthaler (R-PA-14)

(TARGETING IRAN-VENEZUELA CONNECTION) HR 7635 (pdf): Introduced 4/28/22 by Salazar (R-FL) and 11 cosponsors (one Democrat, Murphy, D-FL), the “Iranian Nuclear and Venezuelan Energy, Sanctions, and Terrorism Government Accountability Report Act,” aka, “the INVESTIGAR Act.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Per Salazar’s press release, “The INVESTIGAR Act would require the Biden Administration to produce a report detailing how Venezuela could benefit from a new Iran Nuclear Deal. Specifically, it requires the White House to report on possible benefits to Nicolás Maduro’s oil industry, how it might help Venezuela avoid American sanctions, and how it would boost Hezbollah and other terrorist organizations. Under the legislation, the report must be delivered to the Armed Services and Foreign Affairs Committees within 14 days of reaching a nuclear agreement with Iran.”

(SUPPORTING AN ICC INVESTIGATION!) HR 7583: Introduced 4/26/22 by Jacobs (D-CA) and McGovern (D-MA), the “Support International Criminal Investigations for Ukraine Act.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. In addition to supporting an ICC investigation regarding Ukraine, the bill states that it is the policy of the U.S. “in general and consistent with United States foreign policy priorities, to provide material and technical support including for the collection and preservation of evidence to ICC investigations of war crimes, crimes against humanity, genocide, or crimes of aggression” and “to pursue a policy of constructive engagement with the ICC,” and “to take steps required for the United States to become a state party to the Rome Statute of the International Criminal Court.”

LETTERS

(LEBANON ELECTIONS) Young/Van Hollen letter to Blinken: On 4/28/22, Young (R-IN) and Van Hollen (D-MD) sent a letter to SecState Blinken, urging the Administration to engage with Lebanon to ensure fairness and transparency in its upcoming parliamentary elections on May 15. Also see: press release; Tweet from Young (R-IN)

(IRAN SANCTIONS REVIEW) McCaul letter to Biden: On 4/27/22, McCaul (R-TX) sent a letter to “remind” President Biden of his “responsibility under Sec. 108 of the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (P.L. 115-44) to conduct a review of all persons on the list of specially designated nationals and blocked persons for activities related to Iran.” McCaul asserts: “Reports indicate that you and your team are considering significant sanctions relief related to Iran’s malign activities to reach a nuclear deal with Iran. I respectfully urge you to conduct the review required under Sec. 108 before lifting any sanctions related to Iran. This review was legislated in 2017. It would be irresponsible and dangerous to lift sanctions related to Iran’s malign activities without first having a full understanding of the reach of Iran’s threat networks and the regime’s enablers.” Press release is here.

(DEMANDING IRAN NEGOTIATOR SUBMIT TO SHOW TRIAL – I MEAN, HEARING) Tenney letter to Blinken: On 4/27/22, Tenney (R-NY) led a letter to SecState Blinken — cosigned by Bacon (R-NE), Steube (R-FL), Jackson (R-TX), and Salazar (R-FL) — demanding that Rob Malley participate in an open hearing on Iran negotiations. Per the letter: “Special Envoy Robert Malley works for the American people, and he should answer to them.”  Commenting on the letter, Tenney stated: “While Iran continues to utilize its terrorist proxies to press its regional advantage and expand its control, Senior Administration officials like Rob Malley are dodging questions from Congress and the American people by refusing to appear in public before the Foreign Affairs Committee. Today, I call on President Biden to ensure his Administration is transparent with the American people.” Also see:

(MORE $$ FOR GREECE & FRIENDS, INCL ISRAEL) Pappas et al letter to SFOPS Chair/Ranking Member: On 4/27/22, Reps. Pappas (D-NH), Bilirakis (R-FL) and Maloney (D-NY) led a letter, co-signed by 28 House colleagues (bipartisan) calling for FY23 SFOPS to include $1.8 million for International Military Education and Training (IMET) assistance for Greece and $100,000 for the Cyprus, Greece, Israel, and United States 3+1 Cooperation Interparliamentary Group. Press release is here.

 

2. Hearings

May 3, 2022: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold a hearing entitled, “State Department Authorization: Strengthening U.S. Diplomacy for the 21st Century.” The sole witnesses scheduled (as of now) is Deputy Secretary of State for Management and Resources Brian McKeon.

****NOTE: This week SecState Blinken spent a lot of time on the Hill. As is generally the case, his written testimony and his opening statements – in every hearing – were pretty thin (to say the least), and the real substance was in the Q&As which (among other things) dipped quite a bit into Iran-related matters.****

April 28, 2022: The House Appropriations Committee’s SFOPS Subcommittee held a hearing entitled, “Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request for the Department of State”. The sole witness was SecState Blinken.

April 28, 2022: The House Foreign Affairs Committee held a hearing entitled “The State Department’s Foreign Policy Priorities and the FY23 Budget Request.” The sole witness was SecState Blinken.

  • Blinken testimony
  • Opening statements: McCaul (R-TX) 
  • Video of the hearing
  • Tweets/press releases:
    •  House GOP 4/268/22: Tweet –”The Biden administration is still negotiating a disastrous new Iran nuclear deal at the expense of the security of the U.S and our allies. WATCH @RepLeeZeldin ask Secretary of State Blinken whether this new deal would be rightfully submitted to Congress.”
    • Zeldin press release – Rep. Zeldin Presses Secretary Blinken on Iran Nuclear Deal Negotiations, Iran’s Past Violations of JCPOA;
    • Sherman (D-CA-30) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “Pleased that @SecBlinken responded to my question that the U.S. will not impose political conditions on our defense aid to #Israel. Sec. Blinken to Sherman: U.S. Will Not Impose Conditions on Aid to Israel – YouTube”
    • Barr (R-KY-6) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “Today, I pressed Secretary Blinken on the Biden Administration’s push to rejoin the failed Iran Deal. This agreement would flush the world’s largest state sponsor of terror w/billions of dollars in cash. I will oppose this every step of the way. My full questioning Link to video”
    • Green (R-TN-7) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “How much sense does it make, when we have sanctions on Russia, to allow a state owned enterprise of Russia to build a $10 billion nuclear reactor in Iran? I asked Secretary Blinken Link to video”
    • Schneider (D-IL-10) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “Iran is a threat to the U.S. and our allies. We cannot trade lessening one threat for dangerously expanding another. I made sure to make this point to @SecBlinken in Foreign Affairs Committee today. Link to video”
    • More Zeldin tweets: here, here, here,here; and on GETTR here, here, here, here

April 27, 2022: The House Budget Committee held a hearing entitled, “Department of Defense FY 2023 Budget.” The sole witness was Under Secretary of Defense Comptroller/Chief Financial Officer Michael J. McCord (statement)

  • McCord testimony
  • Video of the hearing
  • Tweets/press releases: Ranking Member Smith (R-MO-8) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “Israel is a strong & important American ally living in a dangerous neighborhood. And yet, Biden’s budget proposes the bare minimum of funding for the Iron Dome defense system for our ally Israel – 92 percent less than that recently adopted by Congress. Link to video” [at 1:18:00 in the hearing video] Also see Smith’s written opening statement, incl: “The request for Iron Dome funding is the bare minimum and 92 percent lower than what Congress just agreed to spend to support our ally Israel. The only mention of Iron Dome in the budget is buried in an appendix. Meanwhile, the President wants to spend $34 million to address ‘extremism’ in the military.”

April 27, 2022: The Senate Appropriations Committee’s SFOPS subcommittee held a hearing entitled, Review of the Fiscal Year 2023 Budget Request for the U.S. Department of State. The sole witness was SecState Blinken. Also see:

April 26, 2022: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing entitled, “Review of the FY 2023 State Department Budget Request.” The sole witness was SecState Blinken. Notably, both Menendez and Risch open the Q&A with attacks on Iran nuclear negotiations and in effect opposing any deal (both on substance and on the argument that it is too late). Also note: in response to a direct question from Chairman Menendez (at 26:15 in the video), Blinken committed to appearing at an OPEN Iran hearing before the Memorial Day recess.  Also see:

  • Blinken testimony
  • Opening Statements – Menendez (D-NJ), Risch (R-ID)
  • Media: Top Senate Foreign Relations Democrat tells Blinken Iran deal will ‘do nothing’ (Washington Examiner)
  • Hearing video. Selected clips being circulated:
    • there is a video clip of Blinken saying (in response to questions from Young (R-IN) both that Iran must take steps in order to have the IRGC’s FTO listing lifted, and also slamming the Trump Administration’s listing of the IRGC as an FTO]
    • There is a video clip of Murphy (D-CT) laying out his support for an Iran nuclear deal, challenging the notion that designating the IRGC an FTO has improved security;  and asking about the Biden Admin’s approach on Egypt
    • There is a video clip (and transcript) of Romney (R-UT) arguing that Iran is “hell-bent on having a nuclear weapon at some point, that they’ll negotiate and delay as long as they can in negotiations with us, but that they ultimately intend to have a nuclear capacity”.
  • Tweets:
    • Cruz (R-TX) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Iran is trying to murder former Trump Admin officials while the Biden Admin is trying to do a deal that would give them billions of dollars. I asked Sec. Blinken 3 times if they’ve at least asked Iran to stop those terror plots, and if Iran said no. He refused to answer. Link to video” [also here, here, here];
    • Risch (R-ID) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Today, I asked @SecBlinken how @StateDept plans to combat pressing int’l issues such as reopening our embassy in #Ukraine, #Beijing’s response to #COVID19, supporting #Taiwan, an #Iran nuclear deal, the global food crisis, & #pandemic preparedness. More: Ranking Member Risch Opening Statement at Hearing to Review FY2023 State Department Budget Request | United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations”;
    • Young (R-IN) 04/26/2022: Retweet of @ElizHagedorn – “Sen. Young: Do you commit that the IRGC’s FTO designation won’t be lifted as part of any deal? Blinken: “The only way I can see it being lifted is if #Iran takes steps necessary to justify the lifting of that designation. It knows what it would have to do.“”

 

3. On the Record

Note: On 4/28/22 the Republican Jewish Coalition held its “Spring Leadership Meeting in Washington, DC,” featuring Senators Rubio (R-FL), Scott (R-SC) and House Republican Whip Scalise (R-LA) (also see: RJC’s legislative agenda).

 

Media – General

Haaretz 4/28/22: ‘No One on My Staff Gets Permission From AIPAC!’: Inside Bernie Sanders’ Presidential Run

 

Media – Elections

WESA 4/28/22: Pro-Israel group [AIPAC] attacks Lee [D=-PA] as bad Democrat without mentioning Israel, or its own support for GOP

Jewish Insider 4/28/22: Blake Masters’ provocations reach back to his college days [“...Such views, while hardly anomalous within the Republican Party, have raised concerns among Jewish leaders in Arizona who have questioned, among other things, whether Masters will support the continuation of U.S. security assistance to Israel if he is elected to the Senate. Masters has insisted that he is in favor of such aid, noting that the U.S. and Israel have a ‘special relationship.’…”]

Axios 4/27/22: Pro-Israel groups wade into Dem primary fights

Jewish Insider 4/27/22: Keith Corbett leverages local experience, party ties in race to succeed Kathleen Rice [“He described himself as ‘pro-Israel in every way’ and ‘a strong supporter of making sure that Israel has what it needs, making sure that Israel is an independent state and ensuring that it stays that way.’”]

Jewish Insider 4/26/22: AIPAC super PAC spent $1.2 million in four Democratic primaries – The group has invested in primaries in Pennsylvania’s 12th Congressional District, Ohio’s 11th and the 1st and 4th Districts in North Carolina

Mondoweiss 4/26/22: AIPAC spends in Dem primaries, but its ads don’t mention Israel

Haaretz 4/25/22: Why Hasn’t AIPAC Endorsed One of Congress’ Most pro-Israel Republicans?

AIPAC’s new political arm has endorsed more than 100 Republicans who refused to certify Biden’s election win, but not pro-Israeli Rep. Liz Cheney, who also happens to be a fierce critic of former president Trump

Jewish Insider 4/25/22: DMFI PAC announces new slate of House and Senate endorsements

Jewish Insider 4/25/22: Longtime Nassau legislator Carrié Solages aims for the House [“The aspiring congressman said the U.S. should instead keep economic pressure on Iran and continue to provide defense funding to Israel. ‘Going back to my days at Georgetown School of Foreign Service, I have always stated publicly, and internally I believe, that we must do everything we can to protect Israel,’ he said.”]

Jewish Insider 4/25/22: Pat McCrory is hoping for a comeback [“Asked about his views on Israel and antisemitism today, McCrory said he ‘absolutely’ supports more funding for Iron Dome, Israel’s missile-defense system, and for extra security at Jewish institutions in America. ‘You don’t understand Israel unless you go there,’ McCrory added. ‘I went on a bus ride to the Golan Heights and the folks there were explaining to me the [strategic] importance of the highlands. You have to see it to believe it.’ In a tweet last May, during the 11-day conflict between Israel and Hamas, McCrory called the rocket attacks on Israel ‘[r]adical terrorism against our great ally.’… ‘Enough is enough!’ he added. ‘We must stand strong with Israel.’”]

Jerusalem Post 4/23/22: Jewish organizations are gearing up as midterm elections nears

 

Members

Israel/ Israel-Palestine

[Note: there were lots of tweets this week — not included in this Round-Up — about Holocaust Remembrance Day/Yom HaShoah, many mentioning Israel.]

Joyce (R-OH-14) 04/29/2022: Tweet – “Israel deserves our support as the only thriving democracy in the middle east. I will always support Israel’s right to exist, and defend itself. I’m proud to have the support of @aipacpac Link to image”

McCollum (D-MN-4) 04/28/2022: Retweet of @ChurchesforMEP – “The letter was made public during a virtual event featuring Congresswoman @BettyMcCollum04 and Christian faith leaders, including three from Minnesota, on Tuesday, April 26. Video of the event is viewable here: What can Congress Do? Faith leaders urge support for Palestinian Children and Families Act (HR 2590)… | youtu.be #MiddleEast #MiddleEastPeace #HR2590 2/2”

Schatz (D-HI) 04/29/2022: Retweet of @howardfineman – “Jews above all must know that the strength of American democracy and rule of law are just as crucial to preventing another Holocaust as is a thriving Israel. By donating so heavily to #Trump’s lawless sycophants in Congress, #AIPAC does more to undermine Israel than support it.”

Blackburn (R-TN) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “Anti-semitism in any form is unacceptable. We must ALWAYS stand with Israel and all in the Jewish community. Antisemitic incidents spike by 34%, break US records in 2021 – ADL”

Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “I am disgusted. These recent acts of antisemitism and harassment toward Jewish Rutgers students are appalling. Antisemitism is reprehensible, and this harassment deserves to be condemned without any equivocation. Link to israelnationalnews.com”

Schweikert (R-AZ-6) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “It was a pleasure to host the Bahraini Ambassador to the U.S. in my office today. We had a good discussion about the importance of the Abraham Accords and why they are so important for Israel and the region. Link to image”

Tenney (R-NY-22) 04/27/2022: Retweet of @jinsadc – “JINSA CEO @MichaelMakovsky via @Kredo0 @FreeBeacon: “I applaud @RepTenney and the cosigners of the letter for urging the administration to testify publicly about its Iran nuclear policy.” Link to quoted tweet”

García (D-IL-4) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Israeli police have escalated attacks against Palestinians, injuring hundreds of worshipers in attacks at one of the holiest Muslim sites during Ramadan. I wholeheartedly condemn this violence, and call on Israel to denounce these attacks and cease from any further provocation. Link to quoted tweet” Retweeted by Tlaib (D-MI-13)

Tlaib (D-MI-13) 04/26/2022: Retweet of @AADAFund – “We are proud to support the first Palestinian-American woman elected to Congress, @RashidaTlaib, for all her work fighting for Justice and human rights for all. Help us support great candidates at: AADAF | Arab American Democratic Action Fund”

Zeldin (R-NY) 4/26/22: Press release – Rep. Zeldin Statement on New York State Leading the Nation in Antisemitic Instances [“This report is devastating and unacceptable, but, sadly, not surprising. Over the past year, we have seen repeated instances of New York Jews being targeted with violence because of their religion and antisemitic and anti-Israel ideologies peddled in our schools, on our streets, and in our government…Antisemitism in all forms must be unequivocally identified, called out and crushed.”]

Torres (D-NY-15) 04/26/2022: Twitter thread – “Antisemitic violence has risen to the highest levels ever recorded by @ADL. There’s nothing accidental about the latest surge in Antisemitism—fueled by a constant barrage of conspiracy theories and vicious lies too often told about the Jewish community & the Jewish state. Link to quoted tweet Combating Antisemitism is not the sole responsibility of the Jewish community. It is a moral burden that all of us should bear.”

Higgins (R-LA) 4/25/22: Higgins Honored by Faith & Freedom Coalition [“The award is presented to members of Congress who have a proven record of protecting life, strengthening American families, defending religious liberty, and standing with Israel.”]

Long (R-MO-7) 04/24/2022: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “BREAKING: Rockets fired from Lebanon hit northern Israel.”

Long (R-MO-7) 04/24/2022: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “The Temple Mount is closed to Jews until further notice. This is the real apartheid. My nation is temporarily banned from visiting the site of the Jewish Temples due to the escalation in violence AGAINST JEWS. Ban the Palestinian rioters who are causing it. This is outrageous.”

Long (R-MO-7) 04/24/2022: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “Pallywood at its best. The Palestinians are faking scenes where a child is shot by Israeli soldiers. I wish they spent all these resources to promote peace rather than propaganda. Link to video”

Miller-Meeks (R-IA-2) 04/23/2022: Tweet – “Always a pleasure to join the rest of the Iowa delegation to hear from Iowans Supporting Israel and discuss the importance of a strong U.S.-Israel alliance. @RepAshleyHinson @RepCindyAxne @RepFeenstra Link to image”

Hagerty (R-TN) 04/22/2022: Tweet – “I stand unequivocally w/ Israel as Hamas, an Iran-backed Palestinian terrorist group, renews its indiscriminate rocket attacks against Israeli citizens. Strengthening U.S-Israel security cooperation remains critical. Link to quoted tweet”

Hagerty (R-TN) 04/22/2022: Tweet – “I praise & support Israel’s efforts to protect the freedom of worship at holy sites in the face of unprovoked violence by Palestinian rioters. I call on the Palestinian Authority to stop spreading lies & to end incitement. Link to quoted tweet”

Inhofe (R-OK) 04/22/2022: Tweet – “When Israel is attacked, the Biden admin rushes to lecture our Israeli friends about Palestinian provocations. But when Houthis fire rockets at Saudi & UAE civilian targets, the admin drags its feet in responding. No wonder our ME partners feel alienated from this admin. Link to quoted tweet”

Lee (D-NV-3) 04/22/2022: Tweet – “I’m honored to receive the endorsement of @aipacpac. I will always work to strengthen the relationship between the United States and Israel and support our Jewish community in #NV03. Link to image”

 

Israel-Iran

Gimenez (R-FL-26) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “Any deal with Iran is a disgusting betrayal of our Israeli allies. Now more than ever, we must PROUDLY stand with Israel. Link to quoted tweet”

Scott (R-FL) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “Iran is evil and hates Israel. @JoeBiden must abandon his dangerous attempts to strike a nuclear deal. Only a fool would trust known terrorists. Link to quoted tweet”

 

Syria

Quigley (D-IL-5) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “Ukrainians are fleeing in record numbers and the U.S. will offer refuge to 100,000 who’ve escaped Putin’s war. Just as we’re extending a hand to our friends from Ukraine, we must be equally concerned about those in Afghanistan, Ethiopia, Syria, and all other war-torn nations. Link to video”

Risch (R-ID) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “#Assad continues to accumulate illicit wealth that entrenches his regime & fuels crimes against the #Syrian people. International & economic isolation remain the best tools to seek accountability. We must step up #Caesar enforcement & minimize impact on ordinary Syrians.”

Sherman (D-CA-30) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “I spoke with @SecBlinken about the need to provide humanitarian aid to Syrians without going through Bashar al-Assad. Sec. of State Blinken Hearing — Sherman speaks on the need to aid Syrians – YouTube”

Risch (R-ID) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “Failure to hold the #Kremlin accountable for #Putinwarcrimes in #Syria played a decisive role in the decision to invade #Ukraine. #Putin is now deploying the same brutal tactics in #Ukraine as we’ve seen for years in Syria. We must do more to hold Moscow accountable. #Caesar”

Wilson (R-SC-2) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Very disappointed that the @StateDept has failed to publicly release the report required by law today detailing the wealth and corruption of the brutal Assad family.” Re-tweeted by Chabot (R-OH-1)

 

Iran

Murphy (D-CT) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “The “key Democrats” who are criticizing the potential deal are the ones who voted against it in 2015. The politics haven’t fundamentally shifted. If Biden reaches a good agreement, the votes will be there in the Senate to back it, just like in 2015. Iran nuclear talks freeze amid terrorist label spat — even with deal on the table… | politico.eu”

Murphy (D-FL-7) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “Good to meet again with General Richard Clarke, the commander of U.S. Special Operations Command. SOCOM is both spearheading the counter-terrorism fight and combatting threats from nations like Russia, China, and Iran—who don’t share our interests or values. Link to image”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “Unchecked weapons in the hands of the Iranian Government can only lead to one thing—aggression. Yesterday we passed H.R. 6089 which adds drones to existing provisions that place sanctions on those who provide weapons to Iran.”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “#GoldStarFamilies deserve our honor and commitment. These families of the fallen are calling on POTUS to not remove the IRGC’s FTO designation as a bargaining chip for an Iran nuclear deal. This dishonors the 603 Americans murdered by the IRGC in Iraq and their families. Link to image”

Mast (R-FL-18) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “This is unthinkably stupid. Biden’s foreign policy of appeasement is the definition of weakness. Sanctions on 80,000 Iranian Militants Could Vanish Overnight… | freebeacon.com”

Miller-Meeks (R-IA-2) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “For years the IRGC has supported and participated in numerous human rights abuses and terrorist activities. They should not be removed from the FTO list until they can prove that they have ceased ALL terrorist activity. 900 Gold Star Families Call On Biden Not To Abandon Veterans By Giving In To Iran’s Demand To Remove Terrorist Group Label | The Daily Wire”

Risch (R-ID) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “Last week tragically marked 4 years since the #Iranian regime unjustly detained U.S. citizen Emad Shargi. Sadly, Emad, like Siamak Namazi and Morad Tahbaz, remains detained in the notorious Evin Prison. The Biden Admin must prioritize their safe return to the U.S. #FreeEmad”

Wicker (R-MS) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “Iran maintains that it will not pursue a nuclear weapon, but it will not allow independent inspectors to verify they are telling the truth. Allowing a dishonest regime into a favorable deal is no way to conduct foreign policy. Trust Iran but Don’t Verify – WSJ”

Romney (R-UT) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Iran is hell-bent on having a nuclear weapon. We must make it very clear that there will be a heavy price paid for pursuing that path. The Administration needs to be clear-eyed: A weak Iran Deal would pose a great threat to our national security and interests in the region. Link to video”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 04/26/2022: Retweet of @AmichaiStein1 – “1/ The Biden admin “is much more willing these days, then it was in the past” to announce that the Iran nuclear-JCPOA talks in Vienna have failed, Western diplomats and Israeli officials tell me.”

Rubio (R-FL) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Stupid policies driven by the crazy left have left America vulnerable to blackmail from Russia, China and Iran Link to video”

Deutch (D-FL-22) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “This weekend marked 4 years since Emad Shargi was wrongfully detained in Iran, despite being cleared of bogus charges. His family continues to fight for his release every day, and we fight with them. Iran must release Emad & other Americans now. Iranian hostage taking must end.”

Fallon (R-TX-4) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “While China, Russia, and Iran continue to modernize their nuclear capabilities, Biden wants to ignore his top military advisors and end our SLCM-N program. Ending this leg of our nuclear triad would prove detrimental to our capability to effectively deter our adversaries.”

Menendez (D-NJ) 04/24/2022: Retweet of @SFRCdems – “For 4 years, Emad Shargi has been unjustly detained in Iran under false charges. He languishes in the notorious Evin Prison, far from his loved ones. He, and all other unjustly detained Americans in Iran, must never be forgotten. We cannot rest until they are free. #FreeEmad Link to image”

Mast (R-FL-18) 04/23/2022: Tweet – “Proposing to take 80,000 Iranian militants off the sanctions list is 80,000 more reasons why the Biden Administration should not be negotiating with a rogue regime. Letting Iranian Terrorists Off the Hook… | mast.house.gov”

Menendez (D-NJ) 04/23/2022: Tweet – “For 4 years, Emad Shargi has been unjustly detained in Iran under false charges. He languishes in the notorious Evin Prison, far from his loved ones. He, and all other unjustly detained Americans in Iran, must never be forgotten. We cannot rest until they are free. #FreeEmad Link to image”

Banks (R-IN-3) 04/22/2022: Tweet – “You really can’t negotiate with terrorists! @JoeBiden Iran has rejected U.S. offers to lift sanctions in exchange for Tehran abandoning Soleimani revenge – ISNA quotes Guards Navy Commander”

Coons (D-DE) 04/23/2022: Tweet – “Four years ago today Emad Shargi was unjustly detained and remains in Iran’s notorious Evin prison, demonstrating Iran’s blatant disregard for human rights and due process. I stand with Emad’s family and call for his immediate release and safe return. #FreeEmad”

Ernst (R-IA) 04/22/2022: Tweet – “With Russia invading Ukraine, China threatening Taiwan, and Iran enriching uranium, this is the Biden admin’s focus: Link to quoted tweet”

McCaul (R-TX-10) 04/23/2022: Twitter thread – “LR @RepMcCaul:“US citizen Emad Shargi was unjustly detained in Iran 4 years ago today. He remains in Evin prison in terrible conditions. Emad and all hostages must be free to leave Iran, come home and reunite with their families immediately.” #FreeEmad #FreeIranHostages Read more here  McCaul, Meeks Urge Biden Administration to “Prioritize Securing the Release of American Citizens Unjustly Imprisoned in Iran” – Committee on Foreign Affairs”

Young (R-IN) 04/23/2022: Retweet of @ToddsTroops – “Check out the latest edition of Hoosier Horn, Todd’s weekly newsletter that keeps you up to date on what Todd has been up to, what’s coming soon, and a few interesting articles that highlight just how important conservative leadership is The Hoosier Horn: Indiana Right to Life Endorsed Todd — Read Todd’s Op-Ed Explaining Biden’s Reckless Iran Deal | Todd Young for U.S. Senate”

Egypt

Diaz-Balart (R-FL-25) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “As co-chairs of the Congressional Friends of Egypt Caucus, @Call_Me_Dutch & I recognize 100 years of partnership between the U.S. and Egypt. We hope our countries enjoy another century of partnership to the mutual benefit of the Egyptian & American people. @EgyptEmbassyUSA”

Deutch (D-FL-22) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “Yesterday marked the 100th anniversary of US-Egypt relations. Egypt was the 1st Arab country to recognize Israel & continues to play a critical role in the security and stability of the Mid East. Our strong US-Egypt partnership includes honest discussions about human rights.”

Gohmert (R-TX-1) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Today marks 100 years of the United States and #Egypt working together as diplomatic and trading partners. There is more work to do to deal with various challenges, especially since all the snubs by the Obama administration. We can accomplish so much through mutual cooperation.”

Reschenthaler (R-PA-14) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “I’d like to recognize our friends in Egypt upon the centennial anniversary of the partnership between our two countries. A strong U.S. & Egypt relationship is critical to regional security & benefits both our nations. I look forward to strengthening ties in the future.”

Cole (R-OK-4) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “On this centennial anniversary of the partnership between the U.S. & Egypt, we are reminded of the importance of this strong relationship, our nations’ shared security & socio-economic interests & look forward to another 100 years of working together as friends!”

Risch (R-ID) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Today marks 100 years since the founding of the U.S.-#Egypt bilateral relationship. This is a significant milestone, and I look forward to continuing to work with Egyptians from across the spectrum to advance issues of strategic importance for both of our nations.”

Saudi Arabia/Yemen

Omar (D-MN-5) 04/27/2022: In reply to Tweet – “Grateful to the President for urgently responding to our efforts on this 🙏🏽 Link to quoted tweet”

Risch (R-ID) 04/27/2022: Twitter thread – “I welcome the decision to drawdown resources from the #BEHT to address emergency needs in #Ethiopia, #Kenya, #Somalia, #Sudan, #SouthSudan, & #Yemen, where severe food insecurity has been intensified by #Russia’s war against #Ukraine. Risch on Announcement of Food Aid to Meet Extraordinary Needs | United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations Now it’s time to enact #FoodAidReform so we can reach more people with lifesaving food when & where they need it most. Our friends, particularly in #Africa, are counting on us to put more food in our food aid.”

Sherman (D-CA-30) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “America stands up for Muslims oppressed by #China. Unfortunately, #Saudi and others sell them out. China is hunting down Uyghurs with help from some surprising countries… | nbcnews.com”

Swalwell (D-CA-15) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “Nothing on Jared’s billions from the Saudi fund? Link to quoted tweet”

Qatar

Gillibrand (D-NY) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “It was a privilege to meet with service members serving in Qatar and Nepal while leading a congressional delegation this past week. We’re so grateful for their service to our country, especially when it means being stationed so far from home! Link to image”

 

Yemen

Connolly (D-VA-11) 04/25/2022: Retweet of @Tjada – “Had a great time moderating a conversation with @GerryConnolly and @FP4America tonight at @busboysandpoets about the war in Ukraine. We spoke about the implications of the war for communities around the globe – from the Horn of Africa to Yemen. Link to image”

 

Tunisia

Deutch (D-FL-22) 04/27/2022: Tweet – “Last week, Pres. Saied gutted the independence of Tunisia’s electoral commission & undermined the integrity of Tunisia’s elections as he continues to gather near absolute power & spurn rule of law. The US must support the Tunisian people’s desire for an inclusive democracy.”

Menendez (D-NJ) 04/22/2022: Tweet – “Deeply concerned by President Saied’s latest unilateral decision to alter the composition of the ISIE, Tunisia’s independent electoral commission. Saied must respect Tunisia’s remaining democratic institutions & work constructively with others to promote free & fair elections. Link to quoted tweet”

Risch (R-ID) 04/22/2022: Tweet – “Kais Saied’s decision to replace #Tunisia’s Independent Electoral Commission raises serious concerns about the fate of Tunisia’s #democracy. Kais #Saied’s dismantling of democratic institutions is putting the U.S.-Tunisia relationship at risk.”

 

Turkey

Cardin (D-MD) 04/29/2022: Retweet of @ARAMAC_DC – “Armenian issues supporter, @SenatorCardin (D-MD), commemorates the 107th year of the Armenian Genocide by remembering the 1.5 million lives that were killed by Ottoman Turkey. ⁠ ⁠ Armenian Americans are grateful for your solidarity with the Armenian people.⁠ Link to image”

Crist (D-FL-13) 04/29/2022: Retweet of @ARAMAC_DC – “Armenian Caucus Member, @RepCharlieCrist (D-FL), commemorates the 107th year of the Armenian Genocide by remembering the 1.5 million Armenian lives that were killed by Ottoman Turkey. ⁠ ⁠ Armenian Americans are grateful for your solidarity with the Armenian people. Link to image”

Schumer (D-NY) 04/29/2022: Retweet of @ARAMAC_DC – “Longtime supporter of Armenian issues, @SenSchumer (D-NY), commemorates the 107th year of the Armenian Genocide by remembering the 1.5 million Armenian lives that were killed by Ottoman Turkey. ⁠ ⁠ Armenian Americans are grateful for your solidarity with the Armenian people. Link to image”

Stevens (D-MI-11) 04/28/2022: Retweet of @ARAMAC_DC – “Armenian Caucus Member, @RepHaleyStevens (D-MI), commemorates the 107th year of the Armenian Genocide by remembering the 1.5 million lives that were killed by Ottoman Turkey. ⁠ ⁠ Armenian Americans are grateful for your solidarity with the Armenian people. Link to image”

Merkley (D-OR) 04/28/2022: Tweet – “The unjust conviction of prominent philanthropist Osman Kavala and other leading civil society voices in Turkey is deeply troubling and underscores how far the country has drifted from upholding basic human rights and rule of law. All politically motivated prosecutions must end. Link to quoted tweet”

Kim (R-CA-39) 04/26/2022: Retweet of @ARAMAC_DC – “Armenian Caucus Member, @repyoungkim (R-CA), commemorates the 107th year of the Armenian Genocide by remembering the 1.5 million lives that were killed by Ottoman Turkey. ⁠ ⁠ Armenian Americans are grateful for your solidarity with the Armenian people. Link to image”

Pallone (D-NJ-6) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “This is an affront to justice but doesn’t come as a surprise given the repressive nature of the Erdogan regime that continues to trample civil rights & use the court as a political weapon. Osman Kavala & other Turkish political prisoners like him should be released immediately. Link to quoted tweet”

Titus (D-NV-1) 04/26/2022: Retweet of @ARAMAC_DC – “Armenian Caucus Member, @repdinatitus (D-NV), commemorates the 107th year of the Armenian Genocide by remembering the 1.5 million Armenian lives that were killed by Ottoman Turkey. ⁠ ⁠ Armenian Americans are grateful for your solidarity with the Armenian people. Link to image”

Cardin (D-MD) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “Alarmed by the sentencing of Turkish philanthropist Osman Kavala to life in prison on politically motivated charges. This sentencing is unjust and is a travesty to justice in #Turkey. Kavala should be immediately released and his draconian verdict should be overturned. Link to quoted tweet”

Menendez (D-NJ) 04/26/2022: Tweet – “This marks another dark day for the rule of law and fundamental freedoms in Turkey. Osman Kavala now faces life in prison for bogus charges after already being detained for four and a half years without being convicted.    This is not justice. Link to quoted tweet”

Van Hollen (D-MD) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “This decision is an outrage. Erdogan wants new US aircraft, but is unwilling to give up his Russian S-400 system, stop aggression against US Syrian Kurdish allies or end attacks & imprisonment of journalists, civil society & opposition politicians. Not a faithful NATO ally. Link to quoted tweet”

Sarbanes (D-MD-3) 04/25/2022: Tweet – “Yesterday, we commemorated the 107th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide. We mourn the 1.5 million innocent Armenians who were deported and massacred by Ottoman-era Turkish authorities. We must speak out against hatred and put a stop to brutal violence. Sarbanes Statement on the Anniversary of the Armenian Genocide… | sarbanes.house.gov”

Pallone (D-NJ-6) 04/24/2022: Twitter thread – “Today we commemorate the 107th anniversary of the Armenian Genocide and remember the 1.5 million Armenians who were systemically murdered by Ottoman Turks. We stand in support of Armenia and honor the memory of the victims of this dark chapter of history. As co-chair of the Congressional Caucus on Armenian Issues, I helped lead the effort in Congress to officially recognize this genocide so that we make sure these heinous acts are never committed again. Last year, President Biden made history as the first president to follow Congress’ lead & recognize Armenian Genocide Remembrance Day. We stand with the generations of Armenians who persevered despite Turkey’s refusal to rightly recognize its role in the genocide.”

Sherrill (D-NJ-11) 04/24/2022: Twitter thread – “I grabbed lunch at Alev Mediterranean Grill in Rockaway, where I met owner Tulin Cagatay along with Rockaway Borough Mayor Tom Mulligan. Link to image When a change in CDC policy led to Mocha the family dog getting stuck in Turkey after a family trip, my office was able to cut through the bureaucratic red tape and get her home! Link to image”

Stevens (D-MI-11) 04/24/2022: Retweet of @MariManoogian – “Today on #ArmenianGenocide Remembrance Day, Armenians around the world honor the memory of those who were killed at the hands of the Ottoman Turkish government beginning 107 years ago today, simply for being Armenian. Below is a photo of my father’s family prior to the Genocide. Link to image”

Eshoo (D-CA-18) 04/24/2022: Twitter thread – “Between 1915 and 1923, 1.5 million Armenians, and hundreds of thousands of Assyrians, Greeks, Syriacs, Arameans, Maronites, and other Christians were brutally and systematically slaughtered at the hands of the Ottoman Empire. Members of my own family were among those murdered, and my parents fled with my grandparents to America. What all of the persecuted had in common was that they were Christians. Today we recognize #ArmenianGenocide Remembrance Day and remember all those we lost.