FMEP Legislative Round-Up February 14, 2025

Resource

1. Bills, Resolutions
2. Letters
3. Hearings
4. Selected Members on the Record
5. Selected Media & Press releases/Statements

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts podcast:

  • 2/10/25: Sumūd: Poetry, Art, Steadfastness, and Joy, ft. , FMEP Fellow Hilary Rantisi speaking with Malu Halasa and Jordan Elgrably, editors of the new book Sumūd: A New Palestinian Reader. They discuss the meaning of sumūd to different people — how it encompasses steadfastness, coping with ongoing oppression, as well as joy and celebration of Palestinian identity — and the variety of voices and media they platform in this new anthology.

1. Bills & Resolutions

TARGETING FREE SPEECH/RIGHT TO PROTEST ISRAEL/ZIONISM

(**UPDATE*** LEGISLATING THE IHRA CONFLATION OF CRITICISM OF ISRAEL & ANTISEMITISM) S. 558: Introduced 2/13/25 by Scott (R-SC) and 35 cosponsors (17 Republicans and 18 Democrats), “A bill to provide for the consideration of a definition of antisemitism set forth by the International Holocaust Rembrance Alliance for the enforcement of Federal antidiscrimination laws concerning education programs or activities, and for other purposes,” aka the “Antisemitism Awareness Act.” Referred to the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. Also see:

TARGETING THE ICC, THE UN, UNRWA, & THE PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY

(TARGETING THE ICC & THE PALESTINIAN AUTHORITY) S. 493: Introduced 2/10/25 by Sullivan (R-AK) and Cotton (R-AR), “A bill to prohibit United States cooperation with the International Criminal Court, the use of the Economic Support Fund to support the Palestinian Authority, and any Federal funding for the ICC.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Per Sullivan’s press release, this bill “prohibits funding for and cooperation with the International Criminal Court (ICC), based on its antisemitic efforts to prosecute top Israeli officials and create a false equivalence between Israel and Hamas, a terrorist organization. It also prohibits U.S. economic support for the Palestinian Authority (PA) based on its cooperation with the ICC’s investigations against Israeli officials. Specifically, it instructs the President to freeze property assets and deny visas to any foreigners who materially or financially contributed to the ICC’s efforts to ‘investigate, arrest, detain or prosecute a protected person.’ Protected persons are defined as all current and former military and government officials of the U.S. and allies that have not consented to the court’s jurisdiction, such as Israel. The legislation covers the 32-member NATO and the 19 major non-NATO countries, which include Israel, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, South Korea, the Philippines, and Egypt. It would also rescind any funds the U.S. has designated for the ICC and prohibit any future money for the court.”

(NO US AID TO COUNTRIES THAT DON’T STAND WITH THE US – & ISRAEL – AT THE UN)HR 1243: Introduced 2/12/25 by Davidson (R-OH) and 2 cosponsors (both Republican), —”To prohibit United States assistance to foreign countries that oppose the position of the United States in the United Nations.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

(TARGETING UNRWA) HR 1252 (text): Introduced 2/12/25 by Jackson (R-TX) and 5 cosponsors (all Republicans), “To direct the Secretary of State to submit to Congress a report on funding provided by the United States to the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA), and for other purposes,” aka, the “Uncovering UNRWA’s Terrorist Crimes Act.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see press release – Rep. Jackson Reintroduces Legislation to Expose the Biden-Harris Administration’s Funding of UNRWA’s Terrorist Crimes

MORE US-ISRAEL DEFENSE COOPERATION (BIPARTISAN)

(MORE US-ISRAEL DEFENSE COOPERATION) HR 1229: Introduced 2/12/25 by Wilson (R-SC) and Norcross (D-NJ),  “To enhance bilateral defense cooperation between the United States and Israel, and for other purposes.” Referred to the Committees on Armed Services and Foreign Affairs. Also see: Lawmakers push for expanded U.S.-Israel defense cooperation in new legislation (Jewish Insider 2/13/25)

(MORE US-ISRAEL DEFENSE COOPERATION) S. 554: Introduced 2/12/25 by Sullivan and 4 cosponsors (1 Republican, 3 Democrats), “A bill to enhance bilateral defense cooperation between the United States and Israel, and for other purposes.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Per Sullivan’s press release, this bill, “strengthens the U.S.-Israel security partnership by extending and expanding existing bilateral security initiatives. It also establishes new cooperative programs, including a broader initiative on unmanned systems, establishing a Defense Innovation Unit in Israel, and advocating for consideration of Israel’s inclusion in the National Technology Industrial Base (NTIB). Finally, it calls for greater cooperation between Israel and regional countries in advancing work on Integrated Air and Missile Defense. Specifically, this bill takes several important measures: Establishes a program between the United States and Israel on Countering Unmanned Systems (C-UxS). This entails a program of cooperation to develop, test, and deploy advanced C-UxS technologies to address threats posed by UAS, funded at $150 million per year. Extension and expansion of the U.S.-Israel Counter-UAS Cooperative Program. This would increase funding for the current initiative from $55 million to $75 million annually. Extension and expansion of the United States-Israel Anti-Tunneling Cooperative Program. Extends the authorization of the U.S.-Israel Anti-Tunneling Cooperative Program to Dec 31, 2028 and increases the authorization to $80 million per year. Authorizes cooperation between the United States and Israel on emerging defense technologies for 5 years (United States-Israel Future of Warfare Act).  Provides $47.5 million a year to encourage further defense collaboration with Israel in areas of emerging technologies, including autonomous systems, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, quantum, and biotechnology. Reauthorizes the War Reserves Stockpile Authority – Israel (WRSA-I); extends the authorization of WRSA-I, which expires at the end of 2026, through January 1, 2029. Establishes a Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) office in Israel. A DIU office in Israel will work with the Israeli Minister of Defense and private sector to counter Iran’s development of dual-use defense technologies. Israel-National Technology Industrial Base (NTIB) Engagement. This requires the Secretary of Defense to engage with his or her Israeli counterpart to initiate a discussion on the process of Israeli ascension into NTIB. Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD). This requires the Secretary of Defense to provide a report on strengthening IAMD in the Middle East.” [bold in the original]. Also see: Lawmakers push for expanded U.S.-Israel defense cooperation in new legislation (Jewish Insider 2/13/25)

THE US & THE GAZA STRIP

(NO US MILITARY ENGAGEMENT TO “TAKE OVER” GAZA) S. Res. 68 [resolution text]: Introduced 2/10/25 by Kaine (D-VA) and 10 cosponsors (9 Democrats plus Sanders, I-VT)), “A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the United States shall not deploy United States military assets or personnel to Gaza for purposes of ‘taking over’ Gaza.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Also see Sanders press release – Kaine and Colleagues Unveil Resolution to Condemn the Use of US Military Assets or Personnel to Take Over Gaza

(NO FUTURE ROLE FOR HAMAS IN THE GAZA STRIP) S. Res. 72: Introduced 2/11/25 by Graham (R-SC) and 4 cosponsors (bipartisan), “A resolution affirming that Hamas cannot retain any political or military control in the Gaza Strip.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Also see: press release – Graham, Blumenthal, Cotton, Rosen, Britt Introduce Resolution to Affirm Hamas Cannot Retain Control of Gaza; https://www.jns.org/with-bipartisan-support-graham-pushes-resolution-to-boot-hamas-from-gaza/

IRAN & THE HOUTHIS

(SANCTIONING IRAN) S. 556: Introduced 2/12/25 by Sullivan (R-AK) and 3 cosponsors (2 Democrats and 1 Republican), “A bill to impose sanctions with respect to persons engaged in logistical transactions and sanctions evasion relating to oil, gas, liquefied natural gas, and related petrochemical products from the Islamic Republic of Iran, and for other purposes.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Per Sullivan’s press release, this bill, “supports the return to a maximum pressure posture toward Iran by strengthening the U.S. sanctions regime against Iran by filling the gaps on existing sanctions legislation and mandating rigorous enforcement of sanctions. Specifically, the legislation expands the range of sanctions to encompass the full logistical chain of Iranian energy exports, it creates an interagency task force to constantly track Iranian illicit activities, and it sunsets the timeline to issue sanctions waivers. It also includes provisions to encourage a new multilateral contact group with like-minded nations to coordinate international sanctions enforcement efforts. Specifically, the bill takes several important measures:Imposes secondary sanctions on the entire logistical chain of foreign entities supporting Iran’s illicit oil sales, including Chinese banks, maritime insurance providers, and flagging registries, as well as the executive-level leadership in those corporations and their immediate family members. It also imposes sanctions on family members of individuals in Iran sanctioned for terrorism, ballistic missile production, or weapons of mass destruction (WMD) facilities. Creates an interagency Iran sanctions working group tasked with constantly tracking illicit transfers of Iranian oil, gas, and related products, with a periodic reporting plan to outline efforts to keep abreast of the evolving sanctions-evasion efforts, and identify new sanctions designations packages. Creates a multilateral contact group for harmonizing and enforcing international sanctions on Iran. Directs the provision of a private sector reporting mechanism, which financially incentivizes private sector counterparts to share information about illicit Iranian transfer operations. Initiates a periodic (180-day) review by the President to justify maintaining existing waivers on eligible nations’ purchase of Iranian oil, accompanied by a detailed, credible plan to phase out the need for waivers for each applicable country. This would include sunset waiver authority on Iran sanctions, following a periodic congressional review. Sunsets the presidential sanctions waiver authority in February 1, 2029.”

(IRAN SANCTIONS SNAPBACK) S. Res. 81: Introduced 2/13/25 by Ricketts (R-NE) and 13 cosponsors (all Republicans), “A resolution calling on the United Kingdom, France, and Germany (E3) to initiate the snapback of sanctions on Iran under United Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015).” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Also see: Ricketts Leads Bicameral Legislation Pushing European Allies to Snapback U.N. Sanctions on Iran; Europe must invoke ‘snapback’ sanctions on Iran; Ricketts X-post – “.@POTUS has taken strong action to restore his successful maximum pressure policy against Iran. Our allies need to do their part, too. Yesterday, I announced I’m introducing legislation to push our E3 allies to initiate a snapback of U.N. sanctions.” NOTE: Apparently there is a House version of this resolution (not in Congressional Record yet) – see: Congresswoman Tenney Introduces Legislation Pushing European Allies to Snapback UN Sanctions on Iran (Tenney, R-NY, 2/13/25); US lawmakers say, as Trump resumes ‘maximum pressure’ (Fox News 2/13/25); Tenney X-post 2/13/25: “Invoking snapback sanctions will reinstate all UN sanctions on Iran that the failed Obama-era nuclear deal lifted. I am leading a resolution with @SenRicketts to send a clear message to the E3: It’s time to step up and stop enabling Iran’s nuclear expansion. The time for snapback is now.”

(SANCTIONING THE HOUTHIS) HR 1250: Introduced 2/12/25 by Hamadeh (R-AZ) and 3 cosponsors (all Republicans), “To require the imposition of sanctions with respect to Ansarallah and its officials, agents, or affiliates for acts of international terrorism.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Also see press release – Congressman Hamadeh Introduces Resolution to Require Imposition of Sanctions on Iran-Backed Houthis

SYRIA

(TARGETING THE NEW SYRIAN GOVERNMENT) HR 1327: Introduced 2/13/25 by Luttrell (R-TX) and Ogles (R-TN), “To direct the Secretary of Homeland Security to conduct a threat assessment of terrorist threats to the United States posed by individuals in Syria with an affiliation with a Foreign Terrorist Organization or a Specially Designated Global Terrorist Organization, and for other purposes.” Referred to the House Committee on Homeland Security.

Other Stuff

(NO TEXT YET – NOT CLEAR WHAT THIS IS ABOUT)  HR 1136: Introduced 2/7/25 by Ogles (R-TN), “To impose sanctions on foreign persons failing to cooperate with the United States.” Referred to the Committees on Foreign Affairs and on the Judiciary.

2. Letters

3. Hearings

February 13, 2025: The Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor and Pensions held a meeting to consider the nomination of Linda McMahon to serve as Secretary of Education. Also see:

  • hearing video — includes discussion of alleged antisemitism on campus, including Scott (R-SC) using the hearing to promote the Antisemitism Awareness Act and referring to protests for Palestinian lives/rights on campus as “disgusting”, with McMahon responding that she supports the 1st Amendment but suggesting that she views Palestine protest as outside of free speech and that schools that tolerate it should be de-funded); and Banks (R-IN) suggesting protest of Israel on campus reflects foreign adversaries funding influencing campuses. Later, Sen. Marshall (R-XX) asked McMahon if she’d “be open to some kind of antisemitism commission to evaluate the progress of the universities” on this issue; McMahon said she would and that she would look forward to working with the Marshall and the Committee on such a commission.
  • Chair Cassidy Delivers Remarks During Confirmation Hearing on Nomination for Secretary of Education [“…We have also seen rampant antisemitism on college campuses, which is leading to attacks and harassment of Jewish students. I am pleased to see that the Trump administration has already launched investigations, and I look forward to working together with you presuming you are confirmed.”]
  • Jewish Insider 2/14/25: Linda McMahon vows to defund universities that do not address antisemitism on campus [“At her confirmation hearing to be secretary of education, the WWE co-founder said she would ‘not stand idly by’ as Jewish students face discrimination”]; Jewish Insider 2/14/25: Dems raise alarm that Education Department layoffs will hinder antisemitism enforcement; Jewish News Syndicate 2/14/25: Trump Ed Dept nominee calls for new panel to tackle campus Jew-hatred [“Schools should be defunded if they allow actions that endanger students, Linda McMahon told a Senate committee.“]

February 13, 2025: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing entitled, After Assad: Navigating Syria Policy. The hearing featured a huge spectrum of views on the issue, ranging from a witness from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy to… another witness from the Washington Institute for Near East Policy (seriously) — Michael Singh (testimony) and Dana Stroul (testimony). Also see: hearing video; Chairman Risch Opening Statement at Hearing on Navigating Syria Policy; Ranking Member Shaheen Remarks at Hearing on Navigating Syria Policy; Jewish Insider 2/14/25: Senate Foreign Relations Committee finds common ground on Syria at hearing [“Members on both sides of the aisle agreed that the U.S. should engage with the fledgling Syrian government to ensure stability and protect against terrorism“]

February 13, 2025: The Senate Armed Services Committee held a hearing “To receive testimony on the posture of United States Northern Command and United States Southern Command in review of the Defense Authorization Request for Fiscal Year 2026 and the Future Years Defense Program.” Witnesses were: Admiral Alvin Holsey, USN, Commander, United States Southern Command (testimony) and General Gregory M. Guillot, USAF, Commander, United States Northern Command and North American Aerospace Defense Command (testimony). Also see: hearing video. NOTE: General Guillot’s testimony included: “…the conflict ignited by Hamas’ October 2023 attack on Israel has expanded to encompass much of the Middle East and threatens to embroil the United States in a direct military conflict with Iran and its proxies” and “I remain highly concerned by threats presented by non-state actors. USNORTHCOM assesses the threat of a foreign terrorist attack in North America is at the highest level in at least five years, as the Israel-Hamas conflict has motivated foreign terrorist organizations to rejuvenate their attack planning against the United States. These groups have also redoubled their propaganda efforts in the last 18 months to inspire lone-wolf terrorists to pursue attacks within the Homeland, as seen with the deadly January 1st 2025 attack in New Orleans.”

February 12, 2025: The House Foreign Affairs Committee held Roundtable with Families of U.S. Hostages Held by Hamas. Also see: Kim (R-CA) 2/13/25: X-post – “I started off the morning at a @HouseForeignGOP roundtable with families of Hamas hostages as they deal with what no family should ever have to go through. I will do everything in my power to bring every hostage safely home & hold Hamas & the Iran regime accountable.”

February 11, 2025: The House Foreign Affairs Committee held a meeting with the King and Crown Prince of Jordan.

 

4. Selected Members on the Record

Trump Ethnic Cleansing/Gaza Takeover Plan is NOT OK

  • Houlahan (D-PA) 2/12/25: X-post – “President Trump made the Israel-Hamas ceasefire even more tenuous Monday during an impromptu press conference where he threatened “all hell is going to break out” if Hamas doesn’t release the hostages by noon on Saturday. Not coincidentally, Israeli PM Netanyahu echoed similar language and the same deadline in comments yesterday. Trump appears to be trying to destabilize this fragile ceasefire and pave the way to recreating Gaza in his imagined ‘Riviera of the Middle East.’ I urge him to stop endangering the lives of both the hostages and the region’s residents and recommit to the agreement that was so carefully and thoughtfully negotiated with our allies and regional partners.“
  • Welch (D-VT) 2/12/25: X-post – “A return to war in Gaza could pose even greater risks to the hostages and kill countless more innocent Palestinians The U.S. and Israel should exhaust every diplomatic option to free the hostages and maintain the ceasefire.“
  • Duckworth (D-IL) 2/11/25: X-post – “As Trump keeps doubling down on his unhinged plan to send U.S. troops to “take over Gaza,” let’s be clear:   This would be a complete disaster for our country and the Palestinian people.   It would undermine our national security, waste taxpayer dollars and cause further chaos in the region.   Everyone’s time would be better spent working toward a two-state solution to help the Israeli and Palestinian people achieve lasting peace.”
  • Ramirez (D-IL) 2/11/25: X-post – “A reminder:  -Threats of Palestinian displacement are illegal and immoral.   -Gaza is not for sale.  -The US must honor Palestinian sovereignty.  -Israel must adhere to the cease-fire deal.  -Hamas must release the remaining hostages.  -We must act as though our collective safety and security -Palestinian, Israeli, and American- are interconnected.“‘
  • Watson Coleman (D-NJ) 2/10/25: X-post – “”
  • Sanders (I-VT) 2/10/25: X-post – “47,000+ Palestinians killed. 111,000 injured. Trump’s response? Forcibly expel Palestinians to make Gaza ‘a real estate development for the future. A beautiful piece of land.’  No. Gaza must be rebuilt for the Palestinian people, not billionaire tourists.”
  • Green (D-XX) 2/7/25: Rep. Al Green Condemns Trump & Netanyahu’s Ethnic Cleansing Remarks, Calls for Boycott & Impeachment
  • Welch (D-VT) 2/7/25: X-post – “Gaza belongs to the Palestinian people. President Trump saying the U.S. should ‘take over’ Gaza is dangerous. There won’t be lasting peace for Israel until Palestinians have equal measures of dignity, safety, and sovereignty, alongside Israel.“

Concern for Hostages & (in some cases) Cheering on Trump plan for ethnic cleansing of Gaza [NOTE: there has been ZERO concern from Congress over the terrible state of Palestinians detainees being released by Israel — ill, emaciated, covered in scabies sores, missing limbs, etc…]

  • Buchanan (R-FL) 2/14/25: X-post – “Very heartening to see. After over a year in captivity, Hamas will release three more hostages tomorrow, including Sagui Dekel-Chen, an American-Israeli whose mother is a Sarasota resident. Join me in praying for his safe return and all of those captured and missing.“
  • Scott (R-FL) 2/12/25: X-post – “Hamas terrorists are evil. Look at what they did to these three innocent men! It’s been 495 days, and still, Americans and Israelis remain in the hands of these monsters. President Trump put it best: every hostage must be released by noon Saturday or else.”
  • Cherfilus-McCormick (R-FL) 2/12/25: X-post – “All hostages need to be released immediately! The heart-wrenching stories from a former hostage about the physical and mental abuse she experienced were devastating. The demand for the release of hostages by Saturday is long overdue.”
  • Kelly (R-PA) 2/11/25: Rep. Mike Kelly Statement Following Release of Marc Fogel
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 2/11/25: X-post – “While I’m relieved that 3 more Israeli hostages were reunited with their families, I’m disgusted by how Hamas terrorists returned them: severely malnourished & unrecognizable.   We must free all the hostages, ensuring their health & safety.”
  • Emmer (R-MN) 2/11/25: X-post – “Utterly heartbreaking. This kind of evil is incompatible with civilized society. Hamas must release ALL hostages NOW.”
  • Fallon (R-TX) 2/11/25: X-post – “Once again, Hamas is preventing the peace deal by refusing to release hostages. Genocidal Hamas terrorists care more about waging war against Israel and causing chaos & destruction than they do for the lives of Gazans.”
  • Budd (R-NC) 2/11/25: X-post – “If Oct. 7th didn’t provide enough evidence of Hamas’ depravity, they’re now refusing to release hostages, as agreed. @POTUS is right to threaten consequences if Hamas does not comply. America must fully back Israel & see that all hostages are released, including six Americans.”
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 2/11/25: X-post- “>While I’m relieved that 3 more Israeli hostages were reunited with their families, I’m disgusted by how Hamas terrorists returned them: severely malnourished & unrecognizable.   We must free all the hostages, ensuring their health & safety.”
  • Scott (R-FL) 2/10/25: X-post – “Every face has a story, a family and a future that was stolen from them the day Hamas terrorists took them as hostages. 493 days in the hands of Iran-backed Hamas terrorists is 493 days too long. We cannot rest—bring them ALL home!“
  • Lawler (R-NY) 2/10/25: HFAC Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee Chairman Mike Lawler Reacts to Hamas’ Indefinite Pause on Releasing Hostages
  • Cotton (R-AR) 2/10/25: X-post- “Hamas is a vicious terrorist organization that slaughtered and starved not just Israelis but also Americans. President Trump is right to demand Hamas release the hostages, and make clear that we will back Israel to the hilt if this deal fails.“
  • Wilson (R-SC) 2/10/25: X-post – “The treacherous terrorist group Hamas is violating the ceasefire deal and refusing to release more Israeli hostages. President Trump was clear: release ALL hostages NOW“
  • Torres (D-NY) 2/10/25: X-post – “Even though Hamas systemically starved Israeli hostages to the point of leaving them emaciated, Mehdi Hasan nonetheless never misses an opportunity to make Israel the villain in the story. He is so blinded by an unbridled hatred for the Jewish State that he can scarcely see the victimhood of the Jews who were barbarically abducted for nearly 500 days. Hasan is a propagandist pretending to be a journalist.” — attacking journalist Mehdi Hassan for posting on X (entirely accurately) ; “We shouldn’t be under any illusion about how the pictures of the Israeli hostages at the weekend – which are bad, and inexcusable – are going to be used to manufacture consent for new violence against Gaza. No mention of course of Palestinians being released in horrible states.“
  • Wicker (R-MS) 2/10/25: X-post – “If anyone needs evidence how brutal Hamas is, look at the pictures of the recently released Israeli hostages. But brace yourself – unspeakable!“
  • Graham (R-SC) 2/10/25: X-post – “One of the things I appreciate most about President @realDonaldTrump is his strength and clarity. I hope Hamas and the region are listening to @POTUS’ recent statement and demand regarding the release of the hostages in Gaza.”
  • Scott (R-FL) 2/8/25: X-post – “Hamas terrorists are putting innocent Americans and Israelis through the unimaginable. For some, it’s day 481 in the hands of these monsters. They can’t afford another day in captivity. We must bring them home now!“
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 2/8/25: X-post – “Relieved that three more hostages are being reunited with their families and loved ones today. I won’t stop fighting until we free all the hostages, including the Americans.”
  • Goldman (D-NY) 2/8/25: X-post – “Over a year ago, I repeatedly called on the @ICRC to perform well checks on Israeli hostages, as required by international law. The ICRC, the @UN and the world failed. Today, we saw the horror allowed by their failure. Israeli hostages were starved and tortured. Disgraceful.“
  • Hern (R-OK) 2/8/25: X-post – “The war in Gaza is a battle between good and evil. For 490 days, Hamas held innocent civilians hostage—more remain in the grip of barbaric terrorists. President Trump was clear: Hamas must release ALL the hostages now.“
  • Wilson (R-SC) 2/8/25: X-post – “Horrified to see the state of Israeli hostages released from Hamas terrorist captivity. Hamas must be eliminated and have no future in Gaza.”
  • Budd (R-NC) 2/8/25: X-post – “There are still six Americans being held hostage by Hamas. They must be released immediately.“
  • Frankel (D-FL) 2/8/25: X-post – “Bittersweet relief that Or, Ohad, and Eli are finally free from Hamas captivity. While we celebrate their return, we remain mindful of their deteriorating health and the loved ones they’ve lost. The remaining hostages are running out of time—we must bring them home now.“

Bibi on the Hill

  • Johnson (R-LA) 2/7/25: Speaker Johnson Welcomes Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu Back to the U.S. Capitol; also X-post – “I was honored to host my good friend, Prime Minister @Netanyahu, at the Capitol today. With President Trump back in the White House and Republicans leading the House and Senate, America will not turn its back on Israel. Our support for Israel is ironclad.“
  • Scalise (R-LA) 2/7/25: X-post – “Honored to welcome Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the U.S. Capitol. We will always stand with our strong ally in the Middle East. “
  • McClain (R-MI) 2/7/25: X-post – “”
  • Cruz (R-TX) 2/7/25: X-post – “Great meeting with my friend and leader of Israel, @Netanyahu. With a unified Republican government, we will bolster the U.S.-Israel alliance and undo the very real damage caused by the Biden administration’s policies.“
  • Lawler (R-NY) 2/7/25: X-post – “I was honored to join Speaker Johnson and Congressional leaders for today’s meeting with Prime Minister Netanyahu. The U.S.-Israel alliance is unshakable, and we stand firmly with our greatest ally in the Middle East.“
  • McCaul (R-TX) 2/7/25: X-post – “It was good to see @Netanyahu today in our nation’s capitol, right after President Trump moved to sanction the ICC for its shameless arrest warrants targeting the U.S. and Israel. I’ll never forget meeting with PM Netanyahu in Israel the wake of Hamas’ October 7 massacre. We must continue working toward lasting peace for Israel and the entire Middle East.”

Sanctioning the ICC

  • Diaz-Balart (R-FL) 2/7/25: X-post – “I applaud President Trump for standing up for America and its allies against the biased, antisemitic ICC. The ICC has lost all credibility, unfairly targeting Israel and its leaders, for simply defending themselves against the barbaric attacks launched by Iran and terrorist proxies Hamas and Hezbollah. As Chairman of the subcommittee that funds U.S. national security interests and foreign policy priorities, I’ve been warning about the ICC’s myopic obsession with Israel. That’s why my funding bill for fiscal year 2025 ensures accountability by strictly prohibiting any taxpayer money from supporting the ICC.“
  • Ernst (R-IA) 2/7/25: X-post – “I called out the ICC last year for losing credibility by becoming an anti-Israel propaganda machine. Glad to see President Trump holding the ICC accountable and standing with our ally!”
  • Barrasso (R-WY) 2/7/25: X-post – “Last year, the International Criminal Court issued arrest warrants for Israeli officials including Prime Minister Netanyahu. Their charges are bogus. Last week, the Senate had an opportunity to impose severe sanctions on the ICC. This would have sent a strong message that America stands with Israel. Instead, Democrats blocked the sanctions.”
  • Kennedy (R-LA) 2/7/25: X-post – “Pres. Trump is right—The International Criminal Court keeps the U.S. and Israel in its crosshairs while ignoring actual atrocities. Bring on the sanctions.”
  • Blackburn (R-TN) 2/7/25: X-post – “President Trump is standing strong with Israel. He has sanctioned the International Criminal Court for targeting the United States and Israel.”
  • Moran (R-TX) 2/7/25: X-post – “.@POTUS ICC EO reaffirms America’s commitment to resisting the ICC’s attempts to undermine U.S. sovereignty and target our ally, Israel.”

More Weapons for Israel

Targeting the UN/UNRWA/Palestinian Authority

  • Lawler (R-NY) 2/13/25: X-post – “Ensuring that every last dollar of taxpayer money is being spent appropriately is a critical mission of Congress. As we examine USAID’s expenditures, transparency is key. The fact that USAID spent millions on a non-profit that pushed anti-Israel and antisemitic rap songs is abhorrent.”
  • Jackson (R-TX) 2/12/25: X-post – “President Trump took bold action by cutting off U.S. funding to UNRWA. To bolster the President’s decisive action, I reintroduced the Uncovering UNRWA’s Terrorist Crimes Act to permanently eliminate funds for this CORRUPT organization and expose how much taxpayer money the Biden administration sent to support terrorism.“
  • Lawler (R-NY) 2/12/25: X-post – “The Palestinian Authority has a history of claiming to end pay-to-slay, only to find new ways to fund terrorism. I’ll believe they’ve ended it when we actually see it.” (with video)
  • Lawler (R-NY) 2/10/25: X-post – “If we’re ever going to achieve peace in the Middle East, it starts with the Palestinian Authority actually ending the horrific practice of pay-to-slay terrorism and committing to de-radicalization of its population.”
  • Lawler (R-NY) 2/10/25: HFAC Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee Chairman Lawler Reacts to Palestinian Authority’s Cancellation of Pay-to-Slay; also X-post 2/10/25: “If we’re ever going to achieve peace in the Middle East, it starts with the Palestinian Authority actually ending the horrific practice of pay-to-slay terrorism and committing to de-radicalization of its population.“

Targeting USAID

Targeting Iran

  • Fallon (R-TX) 2/13/25: X-post – “President Trump’s maximum pressure campaign makes clear the US will not tolerate a nuclear-armed Iran. Gone are the days of appeasement and lax sanctions enforcement towards the regime best known for being the leading state-sponsor of terrorism.“
  • Wilson (R-SC) 2/13/25: X-post – “This is bizarre. This insulting censorship of those opposing the terrorist regime in Tehran will not stand. Iranian voices deserve to be heard. I call on @GermanyDiplo to change course again and allow @PahlaviReza to participate in the Munich Security Conference. Free Iran“
  • Wilson (R-SC) 2/13/25: X-post – “Grateful to meet with her excellency Ambassador @rbalsaud of Saudi Arabia! The U.S.-Saudi partnership is critical for the future of Free Syria and to counter War Criminal Putin and the Iranian regime. Saudi Arabia is a true friend and anchor of stability in the Middle East.”
  • Wilson (R-SC) 2/13/25: X-post- “Iraqi Army Chief Abdul Amir Rashid Yarallah said designated terrorist & Iraqi Hezbollah leader Abu Mahdi Muhandis “is our brother, leader, supporter and backer. Abu Mahdi who gathered us together during battles.” Spotted here with Soleimani pic The Iraq Army = Iranian puppets“
  • Kennedy (R-LA) 2/13/25: X-post – “Xi, Putin, and the Ayatollah in Iran are working against America and Western values, including—but not limited to—freedom.”
  • Wilson (R-SC) 2/10/25: X-post – “Connect the dots. The Iranian regime gives War Criminal Putin suicide drones and missiles. War Criminal Putin supplies Iranian puppets Hezbollah and the Houthis. The Chinese Communist Party bankrolls it all. Counter the Axis of Aggressors!“
  • Babin (R-TX) 2/10/25: X-post – “Iran’s assassination plot against President Trump was more extensive than we knew. Make no mistake: this will not be tolerated!“
  • Wilson (R-SC) 2/8/25: X-post – “The Iranian regime tried to assassinate President Trump and is insistent that it still will. Iran will be free and all its puppets will fall, including the Houthis, Qassim al-Araji, Kais Saied, and Bidzina Ivanishvili.”
  • Fischbach (R-MN) 2/8/25: X-post – “We need to do everything we can to keep Iran from getting nuclear weapons. Thank you, @POTUS for working to drive down Tehran’s exports and enforce greater sanctions.“
  • Wilson (R-SC) 2/8/25: X-post – “Iraqi Kleptocracy starts with Rafidain Bank. Why is @UStreasury allowing Iraq’s largest bank to be a piggy bank for Iran’s militias?”
  • Lawler (R-NY) 2/7/25: X-post (incl video) – “The Biden Administration let Iran’s illicit oil trade thrive, which funded terrorism across the Middle East. I fought to crack down on it and am glad to see action finally being taken by President Trump on this front.“

Republicans STAND WITH ISRAEL!

  • Lawler (R-NY) 2/10/25: X-post – “I met with Ofir Akunis, Consul General of Israel, in New York today, and it was a valuable opportunity to discuss significant developments in the Middle East and build stronger ties with Israel. We also discussed ways to support our shared community here in New York. Looking forward to our continued collaboration!“
  • Jordan (R-OH) 2/7/25: X-post – “Israel couldn’t trust the Biden administration. But they can trust President Trump! We’ll always back our great ally.“
  • Ellzey (R-TX) 2/7/25: X-post – “Before heading home to Texas, I met with the IDF alongside my colleagues @RepPfluger and @RepJimmyPanetta for an update on the ongoing situation in Israel. As our strongest ally in the Middle East, America must always stand with Israel.“

 

5. Selected Media