FMEP Legislative Round-Up June 12, 2026

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

My comment on the continuing top story this week:

  • Looking at Israel-related measures now in play on the Hill, one would be hard-pressed to avoid concluding that Israel’s govt & its allies in Congress & pro-Israel orgs want to ensure Israel’s PM will be functionally (& permanently) granted a seat in the US situation room.
  • Specifically, this means pursuing legislation—much of it built on an edifice of pro-Israel measures passed into law, with little or no debate, over many years—that will accomplish three inter-related and mutually-reinforcing goals:
  • Goal A: Establishing/expanding the role and position of Israel within US national security processes, policies, strategies, and procurements — including deepening interoperability and inter-dependence of core military and intelligence functions;
  • Goal B: Doing so in such a way that it cannot easily be undone (by either a future Congress or Administration);
  • Goal C: Codifying the transformation of Israel from a foreign state that enjoys US support & aid, into an actor whose interests, prerogatives, and entitlements are enmeshed, by law, with those of the US, such that Israel is legally woven into the fabric of U.S. national security apparatus functions — where its position will not only be less vulnerable to changing political tides (compared to today), but also even less transparent and accountable.
  • Whether you love or hate this effort, the fact is: vital US national security equities are in play & are being decided not via rigorous, transparent, informed deliberation/debate, but via text slipped into must-pass bills & defended, disingenuously, as non-consequential.

Also see media coverage of this legislative effort:

1. Bills & Resolutions

Expanding/Deepening/Cementing US-Israel Military & Intelligence Cooperation & Integration 

(FUNDING FOR ISRAEL IN FY27 DEFENSE APPROPS) HR XXXX: On 6/10/26 the House Appropriations Committee released the initial draft of the FY27 Depart of Defense Appropriations Bill [press release; bill text]. The bill includes:

  • Israel funding: Section 8068, hard earmarking $500 million for “Israeli Cooperative Programs”, sub-earmarked as follows: $20 million for the procurement of the Iron Dome defense system;$127 million for the Short Range Ballistic Missile Defense (SRBMD) program; $30 million for co-production activities of SRBMD systems in the United States and in Israel; $150 million for co-production activities of Arrow 3 Upper Tier systems in the United States and in Israel; $173 million for the Arrow System Improvement Program including development of a long range, ground and airborne, detection suite
  • Jordan funding: Section 8105 earmarks $150 million for Jordan; Section 8116 stipulates that up to $500 million “may be used to support the armed forces of Jordan.”
  • The bill also includes “For the ‘Counter-Islamic State of Iraq and Syria Train and Equip Fund’, $303,099,000″

(SENATE NDAA) S. XXXX: On 6/11/26 the Senate Committee on Armed Services completed its work on the FY27 NDAA (following a set of CLOSED subcommittee and committee markups, after which the Committee voted to send the bill to the Senate floor by a vote of 18-9 ). While the full text is not online as of this writing, the 33-page Executive Summary published by the Committee indicates that:

  • the bill “Establishes the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative to expand and accelerate bilateral defense technology research, development, testing, evaluation, coordination, and industrial cooperation between the U.S. and Israel.” This appears to be the same as (or very similar to) the controversial Section 224 of the House version of the bill (covered in detail in last week’s Round-Up) — a measure that would which would expand, deepen, and mandate new US military cooperation and integration with Israel. As noted in last week’s Round-Up, some defenders of this provision argue that Section 224 really do anything new, and really isn’t a big deal. Technically speaking, they are maybe 80% correct — the provision does largely build on authorities that already exist in law — but the word “technically” is doing a lot of work here. Which is to say: the road to a lot of decisions for which people don’t want to be held to account is paved with arguments that ignore/dismiss highly relevant (and overwhelmingly self-evident) political context and intent. Indeed, arguing that this provision is “technically” doing nothing new is not unlike arguing that the Supreme Court gutting the Voting Rights Act is “technically” just about adopting race-neutral policies (so clearly nothing any rational person would be concerned about!). 
  • Authorizes increased funding for U.S.-Israel cooperation in countering unmanned aerial systems and subterranean warfare.
  • Directs an initiative to bolster defense cooperation among the United States and signatories of the Abraham Accords.
  • Conditions defense funding to the Lebanese Armed Forces on its willingness to counter Hezbollah.
  • Conditions defense support to the Syrian government on its efforts to disarm all foreign fighters and jihadists who remain in Syria.
  • Directs the continuation of Counter ISIS Train and Equip Funds (CTEF) defense to Iraqi Kurdish partners.

(DOUBLING DOWN ON ABRAHAM ACCORDS) HR 9147: Introduced 6/4/26 by Goldman (R-TX) and 22 cosponsors, “To amend the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 to modify the duties of the Special Presidential Envoy for the Abraham Accords, Negev Forum, and Related Normalization Agreements, and for other purposes.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Targeting Free Speech, Right to Protest, Academic Freedom, Etc.

(TARGETING NON-PROFIT STATUS FOR POLITICAL REASONS) HR 9254 [bill text]: Introduced 6/10/26 by Roy (R-TX) and 4 Republican cosponsors, “To specify that the Southern Poverty Law Center shall not be treated as described in section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986” aka the “Stop Subsidizing Political Lawfare by Charities Act (Stop SPLC Act).” Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. Also see press release – Rep. Roy Introduces STOP SPLC Act to Revoke Left-Wing Group’s Tax-Exempt Status; FIRST ON FOX: SPLC’s tax-exempt status under threat after fiery Capitol Hill hearing (F0x News 6/10/26)

(WEAPONIZING FIGHT AGAINST ANTISEMITISM TO TARGET FREE SPEECH) HR 9211: Introduced 6/9/26 by Goldman (D-NY) and 29 bipartisan cosponsors, “To strengthen Federal efforts to counter antisemitism in the United States and protect the Jewish community,” aka the “Jewish American Security Act.“ Referred to the Committees on Education and Workforce; Judiciary; Homeland Security; Transportation and Infrastructure; and Energy and Commerce. NOTE: THIS IS THE HOUSE COMPANION TO S. 4576, Introduced in the Senate 5/20/26 by Rosen (D-NV) and 7 cosponsors (bipartisan). Also see: Goldman, Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Strengthen Federal Efforts to Combat Antisemitism

  • See the 5/22/26 edition of the Round-Up for details/analysis of the Senate version of the bill
  • My analysis on the bill (both House and Senate): “Love it or hate it, but absent an affirmative repudiation of the IHRA definition &/or the articulation of a clear alternative definition (something the forces behind this bill would never accept) any antisemitism legislation adopted under the Trump Admin will, 1st & foremost, codify into law & expand enforcement of the IHRA definition. This is not a hypothetical or even worst-case analysis; it is acknowledgment of fact. Simply stated: the IHRA definition & its conflating-criticism-of-Israel/Zionism-with-antisemitism examples **is at the core of Trump’s approach to antisemitism**, as reflected in the 2 Executive Orders on antisemitism that are explicitly cited in the framing of this bill. Likewise, adoption/enforcement of IHRA is a core objective shared by the main groups & leaders behind the current bill—the same groups & leaders who, if the bill becomes law, will no doubt work hand-in-hand with the Trump Administration to interpret & vigorously enforce it. Removal/omission of explicit references to the IHRA definition from the bill is entirely performative–doing little more than offering a pretext for some orgs/people who are ostensibly concerned about the IHRA definition to demonstrate they can be part of a big tent solution. This brings to mind a variation of an old adage: the road to legislating/enforcing IHRA—& all this means for delegitimizing, suppressing, & even criminalizing free speech—may well be paved, at least in part, with facile ‘it could have been worse’ rationalizations. Bottom line: some people are/will be very happy about what this bill does; others not. The point is to be HONEST about what it is about and what it will do.”
  • Jewish leaders throw support behind bipartisan House antisemitism bill (The Forward 6/10/26)
  • ADL X-post on press conference announcing the bill: “With antisemitism at record levels, Jewish communities deserve nothing less than a strong federal commitment to their safety. The Jewish American Security Act is the kind of bold, bicameral action this moment calls for. We thank @RepDanGoldman and @RepMikeLawler for leading this s to pass it without delay.“; Jewish Council for Public Affairs;

(TARGETING FREE SPEECH FOR PALESTINIAN LIVES/RIGHTS ON CAMPUS) HR 9203: Introduced 6/8/26 by Stefanik (R-NY) and Gillen (D-NY), “To increase the transparency of colleges and universities in carrying out their civil rights responsibilities, and for other purposes.” Referred to the House Committee on Education and Workforce. Also see: Stefanik, Gillen introduce bill to reform campus antisemitism adjudication procedures (Jewish Insider 6/10/26); Bipartisan bill would require colleges to investigate Jew-hatred complaints or risk losing federal funds (Jewish News Syndicate 6/10/26); Orthodox Union Advocacy Center Endorses Student Protection and University Accountability Act (Orthodox Union 6/9/26)

(HOLDING PEOPLE RESPONSIBLE FOR SINS OF THEIR RELATIVES AS PRETEXT TO KEEP PEOPLE OUT OF THE US) HR 9160: Introduced 6/4/26 by Steube (R-FL) and 4 cosponsors, “To establish a new ground for inadmissibility for close relatives of foreign terrorists.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Also see: press release – Rep. Steube and Sen. Cotton Introduce No Safe Haven for Terrorist Families Act

Iran

(TARGETING IRAN) HR 2505: Introduced 3/31/25 by Keating (D-MA) and Wilson (R-SC), “To require the development of strategies and options to prevent the export to Iran of certain technologies related to unmanned aircraft systems, and for other purposes.” Considered on the House floor (here) under suspension of the rules and passed by Voice Vote 6/8/26.

(TARGETING IRAN) HR 6230: Introduced 11/20/25 by Self (R-TX) and no cosponsors “To designate certain individuals as specially designated global terrorists.” Considered on the House floor (here) under suspension of the rules and (here) and passed by Voice Vote 6/8/26.

(BEWARE IRANIANS COMING TO THE US FOR THE WORLD CUP!) H. Res. 1353: Steube (R-FL) and 9 cosponsors (all Republicans), “Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives supporting the Department of State’s efforts to prevent the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) from embedding themselves within the Iranian National Football Delegation during the 2026 FIFA World Cup and to limit the delegation’s presence in the United States to the minimum time necessary for scheduled match play.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

Other

(REPORT TO CONGRESS ON COUNTRIES SHELTERING US FUGITIVES) HR 9202: Introduced 6/8/26 by Smith (R-NJ) and Bilirakis (R-FL), “To direct the President to submit to Congress a report on fugitives currently residing in other countries whose extradition is sought by the United States and related matters, and for other purposes.”  Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. NOTE: The issue of US fugitives taking refuge in Israel – thanks to Israel’s Law of Return – is probably NOT the intended focus of this bill, but would likely figure into such a report, if this passes into law).

————

Media related to previously-covered legislation:

2. Letters & Reports

3. Hearings & Markups

June 17, 2026: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold a Business meeting to markup of various measures, including:

  • S. 3172 – Repeal certain Acts that impose sanctions upon Syria
  • S. 3900 – Iran Human Rights, Internet Freedom, and Accountability Act of 2026, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute
  • S. 4443 – Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute

June 9, 2026: The House Judiciary Committee held another kangaroo court-style hearing targeting the Southern Poverty Law Center, The Southern Poverty Law Center: Manufacturing Hate, Part II [video]. Witnesses were: Bryan Fair, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, Southern Poverty Law Center (testimony); Alveda King, Chair of the American Dream, America First Policy Institute (testimony); Ryan Bangert, Senior Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Special Counsel to the President, Alliance Defending Freedom (testimony); and Mary McCord Executive Director, Institute for Constitutional Advocacy Protection; Visiting Professor of Law, Georgetown University Law Center (testimony). Also see: House committee presses Southern Poverty Law Center on absence of Islamist, anti-Israel groups from Hate Map (Jewish News Syndicate 6/9/26); Congressman Cohen Condemns Rationale for Attack on the Southern Poverty Law Center (Cohen (D-TN) 6/9/26).

June 9, 2026: The House Foreign Affairs Committee held a mark-up of a various of measures [video], including HR 9087, “To direct the Secretary of State to take actions with respect to certain foreign affairs matters.” In the course of the markup —which is not over, and which recessed after 11+ hours without completing roll call votes on any amendments — a number of members introduced amendments to legislate policy matters related to the Middle East/Israel. Stay tuned for full coverage of these amendments in a future Round-Up. NOTE: It was reported this week that Lawler (R-NY) intended to attached the text of the IGO Anti-Boycott Act — the current version of the Israel Anti-Boycott Act, which seeks to impose fines and jail time on people for their personal, non-c0erced decisions to support boycott products from Israeli settlements — to HR 9087, but ultimately withdrew the amendment, possibly as the result of public outcry.

4. Selected Members on the Record

REMINDER: It is simply beyond the capacity of the Round-Up to track [let alone document] what every member of the House and Senate is saying about the US/Israel war with Iran. To see what a specific member has said, check their websites and social media accounts.

Elections & AIPAC, etc.

  • Sanders (I-VT) 6/10/26: X-post – “The flood of billionaire money that will come against Graham Platner is no accident. Whether it is AI, AIPAC or crypto, billionaire-funded super PACs will spend hundreds of millions to defeat candidates who stand with working people and challenge their power.”

Standing with Israel, Attacking Anything Related to Palestinians

  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 6/10/26: X-post – “According to the chief oversight body for American foreign assistance, 101 more UNRWA employees — including schoolteachers and principals — have been identified as Hamas fighters who participated in the October 7 terror attack on Israel. This adds to clear evidence that UNRWA has been infiltrated by Hamas terrorist, an alarm I have raised over and over again. These individuals and all UNRWA employees involved with Hamas must be designated as terrorists. No more excuses.”
  • House Foreign Affairs Committee (GOP) 6/8/26: X-post – “Any dollar sent to UNRWA is a dollar sent to Hamas. American tax dollars should never be used to fund these terrorists.” Commenting on Adam Kredo/Free Beacon X-post – “SCOOP: Federal Probe Finds 101 More UNRWA Staffers Are Hamas Soldiers From Oct. 7 — “UNRWA school principals, teachers, security personnel, attendants, psychosocial counselors, and medical professionals” doubled as terrorists, @AidOversight concludes”

Egging on Israeli &/or US Attacks on Lebanon/Gaza

  • Fine (R-FL) 6/8/26: X-post – “Israel has every right to respond to rockets being fired at its civilians exactly as we would. Bombs away.“

Telling Another Country What Its Policy Must Be on Israel

  • Kean (R-NJ) 6/10/26: X-post – “In October, I signed a bipartisan letter expressing concern to Ireland over its proposed legislation which would unfairly target Israel. This bill is now scheduled for debate.   If enacted, this legislation would criminalize importing goods from many Israeli businesses and could significantly harm American businesses operating in Ireland.    I continue to stand with my colleagues in urging them to withdraw the bill.”
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 6/9/26: X-post – “In October, I led a bipartisan letter urging Ireland not to move forward with its Occupied Territories Bill, an anti-Israel Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) measure. I was encouraged when the bill was shelved. Surprisingly, it’s now scheduled to be debated this week. Let’s be clear about what this bill is: a one-sided measure that singles out Israel while ignoring territorial disputes everywhere else in the world. And, it could come with a real cost. U.S. companies in Ireland could be forced to choose between complying with Irish law and complying with anti-boycott laws in thirty-eight American states. I continue to stand with my colleagues in urging them to withdraw the bill.”

Concerns re: West Bank/Gaza/Jerusalem/Palestinians & Lebanon 

  • Lynch (D-MA) 6/11/26: X-post – statement announcing co-sponsorship of Block the Bombs
  • Jayapal (D-WA) 6/10/26: X-post w/ video clip: “White phosphorus is a dangerous chemical that the Israeli military has improperly used across Lebanon, harming civilians. I introduced an amendment to prevent the sale or transfer of white phosphorus munitions to Israel because it is the moral and strategic thing to do.” [in unfinished HFAC business meeting this week; no recorded vote yet on her amendment]
  • Merkley (D-OR) 6/11/26: X-post – “Last night, Israeli settlers set the historic Palestinian Christian village of Taybeh ablaze in an arson attack. When I traveled to the West Bank last year, I met with Taybeh residents advocating for dignity and security. Israeli authorities are failing to hold extremist settlers accountable for this rampant violence.”
  • Stansbury (D-NM) 6/10/26: Floor statement, including, “Congress must assert not only our Constitutional authority but reclaim our moral compass. As we stand here in this Chamber, violence continues abroad. Over the weekend, bombs and firefights shelled communities in Lebanon,  Israel, and Iran. In Lebanon, more than 3,500 people have been killed, nearly 11,000 injured, and more than a million people have been displaced and lost their homes. Families have lost loved ones. Communities have been uprooted. Entire neighborhoods have been reduced to rubble. Across the region, innocent people are paying the price for decisions they did not make and conflicts they did not create. As this violence rages on, it happens against the backdrop of a humanitarian catastrophe in Gaza, ongoing human rights violations in the West Bank, human suffering that has reached unimaginable levels. Children are facing hunger, displacement, and the constant threat of violence. Families are struggling to access food, clean water, medicine, and shelter. In the West Bank, Palestinian families continue to face violence daily. A 7-month-old baby was shot and killed by a soldier just days ago in a car. Entire villages and sacred olive trees have been destroyed. There are restrictions on movement, indignities in everyday life, and unfathomable cruelty.”
  • Merkley (D-OR) 6/10/26: X-post – “In the West Bank, Palestinians are being cut off from water sources, from their orchards, from their vineyards.    It’s unjust, and I’m pressing for the U.S. to act.”
  • Pocan (D-WI) 6/8/26: X-post – “Most people have been paying attention to the genocide in Gaza, but fewer people have been focusing on what’s going on in the West Bank. If we allow Israel to build these illegal settlements, the chance of a unified Palestine becomes much more difficult.”

Other stuff

  • Welch (D-VT) 6/10/26: X-post – “President Trump is waging a war in the Middle East to appease Prime Minister Netanyahu.  American families are paying the price.”
  • Ramirez (D-IL) 6/10/26): X-post – “Salah must be released. Wrongfully detained for exercising his right to dissent, the Trump administration used immigration detention to silence him. As his health declines in ICE custody, I joined @RepGwenMoore to demand his immediate release. We will not give up on our constitutional rights nor abandon our neighbors!” Commenting on article, Wisconsin Muslim community leader in immigration detention due to pro-Palestinian speech, attorneys allege
  • Massie (R-KY) 6/10/26: Floor speech on U.S.S. Liberty – RECOGNIZING LIVES LOST AND SURVIVORS OF 1967 ISRAELI ATTACK ON U.S. OBSERVATION SHIP
  • Walberg (R-MI) & Green (D-TX) 6/10/26: in context of House floor debate on HR 5408 (Faster Labor Contracts Act), asserting: “President Trump is a strong supporter of Israel, but millions of dollars of union dues from unions like the SEIU, United Electrical Workers Union, and United Auto Workers are going to a pro-Hamas, anti-Israel agenda.” Green (D-TX) responded, “...we should not engage in insidious prevarications to solicit the support of legislation. It is not true, and I defend all the unions, especially SEIU and AFSCME. It is not true that any of those unions support Hamas. That is below the belt. There is no empirical evidence to indicate that any of the unions support Hamas. When I heard that, it really touched a nerve. We can debate these issues without the prevarications that can become incitive. This is about whether we should have collective bargaining, that it should be fair, and that the industry and labor should compromise and work together. I can support compromise, but I cannot support language indicating that labor unions are supporting Hamas. It is not true.” Walberg responded: “…my exact words were: President Trump is a strong supporter of Israel, but millions of dollars of union dues from unions like SEIU, the United Electrical Workers, and the United Auto Workers are going to support a pro-Hamas, anti-Israel agenda. I stand by that.” Also see Green’s press release in the exchange.
  • Sanders (I-VT) 6/9/26: X-post – “Netanyahu is lobbying for Section 224 in the national defense bill, a provision that quietly expands U.S.-Israel military cooperation and weapons development with almost zero oversight. The American people do not want more U.S. military aid to Israel. We must defeat Section 224.”
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 6/4/26: X-post – “No foreign government should be influencing what our kids are taught in American classrooms. We need transparency, accountability, and strong safeguards against foreign interference in our education system. American students should be learning facts, not Qatari-funded narratives.”

5. Selected Media

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – GENERAL

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – California

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

  • Israel Hayom 6/7/26: ‘Too fat to fit in the ovens’: the congressman facing down Dan Bilzerian [“Jewish Republican congressman Randy Fine, ‘the Hebrew Hammer,’ has become Congress’s loudest voice against antisemitism – and faces accusations of anti-Muslim racism. In August he faces a primary against ‘Instagram king’ Dan Bilzerian, who Fine says called him ‘a fat Jew’ and claimed ‘a lot of soap’ could be made from him.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

Iran

Other Stuff

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

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts podcast:

  • 6/5/26: How the Iran War will change the Middle East, ft. FMEP fellow Peter Beinart in conversation with Professor Dana El Kurd (University of Richmond) and Professor Nader Hashemi (Georgetown University) about how the current war increases Iran’s “soft power,” why Saudi Arabia and the UAE are reacting differently to Iran and Israel, and why American hegemony remains in the Middle East.
  • 6/3/26: Accountability and the culture of elite impunity in America, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with Harrison Mann (Win Without War), a former U.S. Army major and executive officer of the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) Middle East/Africa Regional Center who resigned from the Biden Administration in protest of his office’s support for Israel’s war in Gaza, and author of the `recent Zeteo article, “Biden’s Genocide Squad Must Be Stopped Before They Strike Again”
  • 5/29/26: Unveiling AIPAC & the Israel Lobby, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with Omar Shakir, Executive Director of Democracy in the Arab World Now (DAWN), about DAWN’s new report on the revolving door between AIPAC (the American Israel Public Affairs Committee) and U.S. and Israeli governmental institutions and the roles AIPAC plays in U.S. politics and public discourse.

NOTE: Apologies for last week’s missing Round-Up and the previous week’s abbreviated edition — I was on vacation [and it was awesome – and I still managed to get an Round-Up out the first week!].

1. Bills & Resolutions

Massively Expanding/Deepening/Cementing US-Israel Military & Intelligence Cooperation & Integration

NOTE:  Looking at all the legislative measures now being introduced/considered, one would be hard-pressed to avoid this main conclusion: Israeli officials and their allies in Congress and pro-Israel organizations are seeking to ensure that going forward, the Israeli prime minister and his/her officials will be functionally – and permanently – granted seats in the U.S. situation room. Specifically, this means pursuing legislation — much of it built on an existing edifice of pro-Israel measures passed into law, with little or no debate, over many years — that will accomplish several inter-related and mutually-reinforcing goals: (a) establishing/expanding the role and position of Israel within US national security processes/policies/strategies/procurements, including deepening interoperability and inter-dependence of core military and intelligence functions; (b) doing so in such a way that it cannot easily be undone (by either a future Congress or Administration); and (c) codifying the transformation of Israel from a foreign state that enjoys support and aid from the U.S., into an actor whose interests/prerogatives/entitlements are enmeshed, by law, with those of the U.S.,  such that Israel is legally woven into the fabric of U.S. national security apparatus functions — where its position will not only be less vulnerable to changing political tides (compared to today), but also even less transparent and accountable. In this same vein, see: The Debate Over Israel Aid Is Coming. Congress Wants To Future-Proof the Relationship First. (Reason 6/5/26)

——————-

(ENDORSING BIBI PLAN TO SHIFT FROM US AID TO ISRAEL TO “PARTNERSHIP”) H. Res. 1339 [resolution text]: Introduced 6/3/26 by Stutzman (R-IN) and Hamadeh (R-AZ), “Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives in support of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s initiative to transition the United States-Israel relationship toward mutual defense cooperation and joint economic investment, recognizing the contributions of Israel to joint military operations against Iran, and condemning the global rise of antisemitism.” Under the resolution text, the House of Representatives, “strongly supports the development of a new memorandum of understanding between the United States and Israel to replace traditional military assistance with a framework of joint defense codevelopment, coproduction, and mutual investment…” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see:

(FY27 NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION ACT) HR 8800 (base text, aka the Chairman’s mark): Introduced 5/13/26 by Rogers (R-AL) and Smith (D-WA), the “National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027.”  Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services. Also see: Committee documents — FY27 NDAA Factsheet – Rebuilding the Arsenal of Freedom; FY27 NDAA Chairman’s Mark One Pager. The bill was marked up in the House Armed Services Committee 6/3/26 – for details (including Israel & Middle East-related amendments offered to the bill] see Section 3, below. 

As always, this bill includes extensive funding for Israel and other Israel-related and Middle East-related provisions. Specifically, the base text (pre-mark-up) includes:

(1) Israel-related funding: Per the funding tables at the end of the bill [and this list includes only those lines that I was able to determine with confidence are Israel-related funding — I absolutely may have missed some]: 

  • $50 million for “Emerging Tech Cooperation” [this appears to be for the U.S.-Israel “Future of Warfare” emerging technologies cooperative program]
  • $100 million for “Israel Counter UXS Program” (UXS = unmanned systems)
  • $100 million for “Israel Subterranean Cooperation”
  • $300 million for Israeli Cooperative Programs
  • $150 million for Arrow 3 Upper Tier Systems
  • $30 million for Short Range Ballistic Missile Defense (SRBMD)
  • $20 million for Iron Dome

(2) Israel-related provisions:

  • Section 1221—Extension of War Reserve Stockpile Authority for Israel – “This section would extend the existing War Reserve Stockpile Authority for Israel established by section 12001(d) of the Department of Defense Appropriations Act, 2005 (Public Law 108-287) to January 1, 2029.“
  • Section 1222—United States-Israel Subterranean Cooperation – “This section would modify section 1279 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 (Public Law 114-92) to extend the authority for the Secretary of Defense to conduct collaborative research, development, testing, and evaluation of anti-tunnel capabilities with Israel through December 31, 2029. This section would also expand the authority to include subterranean threats of all types.“
  • Section 1223—United States-Israel Cooperation to Counter Unmanned Systems in All Warfighting Domains – “This section would modify section 1278 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2020 (Public Law 116-92) to extend the authority for the Secretary of Defense to conduct collaborative research, development, testing, and evaluation of technologies to counter unmanned systems with Israel through December 31, 2029.“

(3) NEW Israel-related cooperation “Framework”:

In addition to the above, the base text of the bill includes a version of a piece of previously introduced legislation known as the “United States-Israel Framework for Upgraded Technologies, Unified Research, and Enhanced Security (FUTURES) Act of 2026“ (HR 7540 // S. 3855), which would expand, deepen, and mandate new cooperation by the U.S. military with Israel [Section 224 in the Chairman’s Mark]. An initial effort to remove this section from the bill, via an  – amendment offered by Khanna (D-CA) during the Committee’s mark-up of the bill on 6/4/26, FAILED – see Section 3, below, for details.

  • NOTE: Some are arguing that Section 224 is a “nothing-burger” – as in, it doesn’t really do anything new, and really isn’t a big deal. Technically speaking, they are maybe 80% correct — the provision does largely build on authorities that already exist in law — but the word “technically” is doing a lot of work here. Which is to say: the road to a lot of decisions for which people don’t want to be held to account is paved with arguments that ignore/dismiss highly relevant (and overwhelmingly self-evident) political context and intent. Indeed, arguing that this provision is “technically” doing nothing new is not unlike arguing that the Supreme Court gutting the Voting Rights Act is “technically” just about adopting race-neutral policies (so clearly nothing any rational person would be concerned about!). 
  • A New Policy on Sec. 224: Detailed analysis of Sec. 224 from A New Policy [“Summary: Section 224 of the Chairman’s Mark of the NDAA establishes a new U.S. Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative aimed at accelerating joint research, development, and integration of Israeli origin and jointly developed defense technologies into U.S. military systems and programs of record. It directs the Secretary of Defense to designate an executive formalize deeper cooperation and integration across emerging and existing domains, including counter-drone systems, missile and air defense, quantum computing, AI and autonomous systems, cyber and electronic warfare, directed energy, and defense industrial base co-production, while facilitating pathways from R&D into procurement…“]
  • IMEU on Sec. 224: IMEU Policy Project – Congress Should Not Systematically Embed Israel into US Military [“Section 224 of the Chairman’s Mark of the FY2027 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA)–the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative–would establish a Defense Department Executive Agent (EA) who would be granted limitless and unaccountable authority for synchronizing and accelerating the US-Israeli bilateral military relationship. The EA would do so by integrating Israeli weapons into US systems and programs; ensuring joint US-Israeli research initiatives; facilitating the transition from joint research and development to US procurement and acquisition; establishing joint ventures and licensing agreements for the co-production and co-development of weapons; and promoting joint military exercises and exchanges of information…“]
  • The media report that broke the story: Responsible Statecraft 5/29/26: Congress quietly moves to integrate US and Israeli militaries — In the first step towards shifting aid further into the shadows, the House’s 2027 NDAA would all but fuse the two countries’ armed forces together; The Quincy Institute added in an X-post on 6/1/26: “Section 224 of the House NDAA doesn’t just fuse US and Israeli military sectors. It would let Israel build weapons facilities in US congressional districts, creating jobs that give lawmakers a direct political stake in protecting the relationship. It’s the same model that makes the F-35 impossible to cancel. Except this time it’s a foreign government building political leverage, not a defense contractor.“
  • House Armed Services Committee Chairman Rogers (R-AL) defends Sec. 224: Rogers (R-AL) X-post 6/3/26 – “Israel is far and away the best ally the United States has in the Middle East, and our cooperative programs with them strengthen our national security by giving our warfighters access to cutting edge technologies. Section 224 of the National Defense Authorization Act of Fiscal Year 2027 doesn’t create any new programs within the Department of Defense. It simply adds transparency and improves efficiency by designating a single official to coordinate existing initiatives. In no way does it give away command and control of our military operations, personnel, or equipment. Misinformation in relation to Israel and our close partnership with them has always run rampant, and bad actors are all too happy to stoke these flames when given the opportunity. Any narrative that this legislation is somehow ceding control to another country in any way is categorically false and misleading. The NDAA strengthens American sovereignty and American national security first and foremost.” Journalist who wrote the original story about the bill responding to Rogers on X: “In the same tweet that he calls out “misinformation in relation to Israel” the man who introduced Section 224 says it ‘doesn’t create any new programs within the Department of Defense’ when that is literally goal #3 of Section 224” – with a screenshot of goal #3 of Section 224 reading: “facilitating the transition of technologies from resarch and development into procurement and acquisition pathways” Also see: House Armed Services chair rejects claims NDAA provision would put Israel in command of US military (Jewish News Syndicate 6/3/26)
  • Members opposing Sec. 224: Massie (R-KY) 5/30/26: X-post – “If the provision in the NDAA to integrate/synchronize the U.S. and Israeli militaries (section 224) makes it out of committee, I’ll offer an amendment to strip it from the bill on the floor. We are a sovereign country.” Khanna (D-CA) 5/31/26: X-post responding to Massie – “And I will be offering an amendment in the committee itself to strip section 224 out, @RepThomasMassie. Trump can’t kill the Massie/Khanna partnership no matter how much he posts on Truth Social.” Khanna added in a 6/1/26 X-post – “Thomas Massie and I are not done working together. Section 224 of our defense bill means to integrate our military with Israel’s military. As a senior member of the Armed Services committee, I am introducing an amendment to stop financing and enabling war crimes.”
  • Other media coverage: 2027 NDAA Provision Seeks Sweeping US-Israel Defense Tech Integration (Military.com 6/3/26); This Pro-Israel Group Paved the Way for Trump’s Disastrous War in Iran [“And that’s not all. Foundation for the Defense of Democracies is now apparently helping write the script for a fusion of the U.S. and Israeli militaries.“] (Zeteo 6/3/26); US measure to deepen Israel military cooperation faces bipartisan pushback [“Democrat Ro Khanna and Republican Thomas Massie say they will try to remove the pro-Israel section from US defence bill“] (Al Jazeera 5/31/26); 2027 National Defense Authorization Act Proposes to Integrate U.S. and Israeli Militaries (Democracy Now 6/1/26); Khanna Vows Amendment to Kill ‘Insidious’ Effort to Deepen Military Ties Between US, Israel (Common Dreams 6/1/26); Congress advances US-Israeli military integration plan (Al Jazeera 5/30/26); Democrat, Republican lawmakers team up against US-Israel military tech synergy (Times of Israel 6/2/26); Ro Khanna and Thomas Massie team up to strip US-Israel military tech cooperation from defense bill (Jewish Telegraphic Agency 6/1/26); US House proposal seeks unprecedented military integration with Israel  (DAWN 6/1/26); Massie and Khanna rail against defense bill provision to integrate US military with Israel (Washington Examiner 6/1/26); Congress weighs measure to expand US-Israel military integration (Middle East Eye 5/31/26); Far left, far right rebel over defense bill provision on U.S.-Israel cooperation [“Former U.S. Ambassador Daniel Shapiro called the provision largely ‘unremarkable,’ countering claims from the extremes that it would mark a surrender of U.S. sovereignty“] (Jewish Insider 6/2/26)

(4) Other Middle East-related stuff in the bill

  • Sec. 1215—Extension of Authority to Provide Assistance to Counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria [“This section would extend the authority under section 1236 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 (Public Law 113-291) to provide support to partner forces in Iraq to counter the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria. This section would extend the authority through December 31, 2027.“]
  • Sec. 1216—Extension of Limitation on Availability of Funds for the Iraqi Security Forces [“This section would extend the condition that 25 percent of funds authorized to be appropriated by this Act or otherwise made available for fiscal year 2027 for the Iraqi Security Forces under section 1236 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 (Public Law 113-291) may only be made available if the Secretary of Defense certifies that the Government of Iraq has taken credible steps to reduce the influence of Iranian-aligned militia groups and actors within the Iraqi Security Forces”]
  • Under Title XII, entitled “Matters Relating to Foreign Nations,” the bill includes a section entitled “Security Partnership with the Kingdom of Jordan.” The section directs directs the Under Secretary of Defense for Policy, in coordination with the Director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency and the Director for Joint Force Development, “to provide a briefing to the House Committee on Armed Services not later than December 1, 2026, on opportunities to expand defense cooperation” in a variety of domains.

(MANDATING US-ISRAEL COORDINATION ON MIDEAST AIR DEFENSE ACQUISITIONS) S. 4681: Introduced 6/4/26 by Rosen (D-NV) and 3 cosponsors (bipartisan), “A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to take action to improve air and missile defense acquisition, and for other purposes” aka the “Optimizing Acquisition Strategies for Integrated Security (OASIS) in the Middle East Act.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Rosen’s press release [Rosen, Ernst, Lankford, Booker Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Develop Middle East Air and Missile Defense Acquisition Strategy to Deter and Defend Against Iranian Attacks] describes the bill as: “a bill to require the Department of Defense (DOD) to develop an air and missile defense acquisition strategy with partners and allies in the Middle East, including Israel and Abraham Accords partners.” Also see: Senate lawmakers introduce bill to establish coordinated Middle East air-defense acquisitions (Jewish Insider 6/4/26)

(LEGALLY REQUIRE & ENFORCE MASSIVE EXPANSION OF US INTELL SHARING & COOPERATION WITH ISRAEL) S. 4615: Introduced 5/20/26 by Cotton (R-AR, the “Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027.” The bill includes an expansive new provision — Section 622 —  entitled “United States-Israel intelligence sharing enhancement.” NOTE: Maybe you think this is the best idea ever! Maybe you think it is a terrible idea. Regardless, it is a HUGE deal and arguably should be understood/discussed/debated rather than just quietly slipping into law unnoticed. Specifically, Section 622 includes:

  • Statement of Policy making it US policy — “(1) to maintain and strengthen the strategic security partnership with Israel as a means of advancing the national defense of the United States, regional stability, and the protection of United States personnel and interests in the Middle East; (2) to enhance intelligence collaboration through robust intelligence sharing and analytic partnership with Israel to counter terrorism, proliferation networks, cyber threats, state and nonstate aggressors, terror financing, sanctions evasion, and other transnational security challenges that threaten both Israel and the United States; (3) to deter and counter destabilizing activities by the Government of Iran and Iran-aligned state and nonstate actors that threaten Israel, United States forces, and regional partners; (4) to ensure that security assistance and defense cooperation are structured to help Israel maintain its qualitative military edge, consistent with United States law and broader regional security considerations; (5) to encourage and support the expansion of regional security architectures that include Israel and willing regional partners, with a focus on integrated air and missile defense, maritime security, early warning systems, and intelligence-sharing frameworks; and (6) to leverage security coordination with Israel to enhance force protection, early warning, and crisis response capabilities for United States military and diplomatic personnel in the region.”
  • Sense of Congress that — “(1) Israel remains a critical United States security partner whose defense and intelligence capabilities provide a strategic advantage that contributes to enhanced operational effectiveness and technological superiority;  (2) timely and actionable intelligence sharing between the United States and Israel has saved United States personnel and property in the region and should remain a central pillar of the bilateral security relationship;  (3) the evolving threat environment in the Middle East—including missile proliferation, unmanned systems, cyber operations, terror financing, and proxy warfare—requires sustained and adaptive cooperation between the United States and Israel;  (4) the United States-Israel security partnership has historically benefitted from bipartisan support, which strengthens the partnership’s credibility, durability, and deterrent value; and  (5) expanding normalization and practical security cooperation between Israel and regional states can serve as a force multiplier for collective deterrence and integrated defense.“
  • Legislative requirements for MANDATORY, expansive intelligence sharing with Israel — “(1) IN GENERAL.—The President, acting through the Director of National Intelligence and, as necessary, the Secretary of Defense, shall, subject to applicable law and the protection of intelligence sources and methods, expand and enhance intelligence sharing with the Government of Israel.  (2) SCOPE OF INTELLIGENCE SHARING.—Intelligence sharing carried out under this subsection shall include the sharing of information relating to cybersecurity threats, terrorism, sanctions evasion, plans and intentions of state and nonstate actors, adversarial technology proliferation, missile threats, unmanned aerial systems, cruise missiles, ballistic missiles, air and space domain awareness, and other aerial threats relevant to the defense of Israel, United States forces and interests in the region, and regional security partners”
  • Legally binding (and exceedingly narrow) conditions with respect to any future decisions to limit intelligence sharing/cooperation with Israel — “(A) IN GENERAL.—Intelligence sharing and related security information exchanges with the Government of Israel shall not be suspended, reduced, or otherwise materially limited except on the basis of a specific and identifiable national security concern determined by the President, such as the protection of intelligence sources and methods, counterintelligence risk, or another significant security consideration.  (B) DOCUMENTATION REQUIREMENT.—The President shall document any determination to suspend, reduce, or otherwise materially limit intelligence sharing or related security information exchanges with the Government of Israel, including a description of the national security rationale supporting the change.“
  • Requirement for mandatory congressional oversight over any decision to alter intelligence sharing with Israel — “(A) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 15 days after the date of any decision to materially increase, suspend, reduce, or otherwise alter intelligence sharing or related security information exchanges with the Government of Israel, the President shall notify the congressional intelligence committees of such decision. (B) ELEMENTS.—Each notification required by subparagraph (A) shall include the following:  (i) A description of the change in intelligence sharing or security information exchange. (ii) The categories of information affected. (iii) The national security objectives served by the change.  (iv) In the case of a suspension or reduction, the specific national security concern supporting the change. (v) An assessment of the anticipated impact on regional security, United States forces, and integrated air and missile defense cooperation.”
  • Legislative requirements for MANDATORY expansion of intelligence sharing and cooperation with countries that join the Abraham Accords — “(1) IN GENERAL.—The President, acting through the Director of National Intelligence and, as necessary, the Secretary of Defense, shall, consistent with applicable law and security agreements, expand and enhance intelligence sharing and analytic cooperation with countries that have normalized relations with Israel pursuant to the Abraham Accords (as defined in section 64(k) of the State Department Basic Authorities Act of 1956 (22 U.S.C. 2735a(k)) in order to strengthen regional security integration. (2) PRIORITY AREAS.—In carrying out paragraph (1), the President shall prioritize the sharing of appropriate intelligence and information relating to—(A) counterterrorism threats and networks, including state and nonstate aggressors, and terror financing;  (B) cybersecurity threats, vulnerabilities, and defensive best practices; (C) air and missile defense early warning and threat tracking; (D) geospatial, overhead, and other imaging intelligence relevant to shared security concerns; and (E) maritime security threats, including threats to freedom of navigation, commercial shipping, sanctions evasion, and regional maritime stability.
  • Requirement for a mandatory annual report to Congress from the President on implementation of this section of law —“(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days after the date of the enactment of this section, and annually thereafter for 5 years, the President shall submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report on the status of United States intelligence sharing with the Government Israel and, as appropriate, regional partners. (2) MATTERS TO BE INCLUDED.—Each report required by paragraph (1) shall include, to the extent consistent with the protection of intelligence sources and methods, the following: (A) A description of the categories of intelligence and security information shared by the United States Government with the Government of Israel. (B) An assessment of progress toward seamlessly integrating Israel into regional air and missile defense and early warning architectures with partner countries, including those that have normalized relations with Israel pursuant to the Abraham Accords. (C) A description of how such intelligence sharing has contributed, if at all, to— (i) improved detection, tracking, warning, interception, or deterrence of aerial threats, including missiles and unmanned systems, for Israel, United States forces, or regional partners; and (ii) the overall stability and coordination of security in the region. (D) An assessment of progress in improving interoperability among technology networks of the United States, Israel, and partner countries. (E) A description of efforts to secure technology networks and data from cyber threats and unauthorized access. (F) An identification of any legal, policy, technical, counterintelligence, or security barriers limiting deeper intelligence integration, including risks to intelligence sources and methods. (G) A summary of any significant increases or reductions in intelligence sharing during the reporting period and the national security rationale for such changes.”

———–

War Powers – Iran & Lebanon

(IRAN WAR POWERS) H. Con. Res. 86: Introduced 4/20/86 by Meeks (D-NY), “Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove the United States Armed Forces from hostilities against the Islamic Republic of Iran.” Brought to the floor 5/20/26 and voted on (Voice Vote); Chair declared the resolution defeated by voice vote; Meeks demanded a roll call vote, which was postponed by the chair. The vote on the measure finally took place on 6/3/26, with the measure passing by a vote of 215 – 208. Four Republicans joined Democrats in voting “yes”: Barrett (R-MI), Davidson (R-OH), Fitzpatrick (R-PA), and Massie (R-KY).

(LEBANON WAR POWERS) H. Con. Res. 84 [resolution text]: Introduced 4/13/26 by Tlaib (D-MI) and cosponsored by Valzquez (D-NY) and Ramirez (D-IL), “Directing the President pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution to remove United States Armed Forces from Lebanon.” DEFEATED 6/4/26 by a vote of 92-324. Only 1 Republican (Massie, R-KY), voted “yes”; 117 Democrats joined Republicans in voting “no”; and 2 Democrats voted “present.”

  • Floor consideration is here. Support for the resolution centered on opposition to Israel’s ongoing military assault on Lebanon. Opposition to the resolution broke down between those arguing that the very existence of this resolution represents support for terrorism/Hezbollah (an argument that got extremely personal/nasty); those arguing that the resolution makes no sense because the US does not ahve armed forces engaged in Lebanon; and those who argued that given that the US does not have armed forces in Iran, the impact of this resolution would be to oppose U.S. forces provising security for U.S. diplomats serving in Lebanon. Note: The record includes, in one place, “***”  — marking the point in the debate where Miller (R-OH) went after Tlaib personally, describing Hezbollah as “butchers that you [Tlaib] like to hang out with to a certain extent.” When Tlaib reacted to this statement, Miller snarked that she was getting “a little emotional” and added: “You advocate for terrorists on a daily basis” and “you advcocate for a terrorist regime every single day” – video]. Miller’s personal attack on Tlaib was stricken from the record (and he was not permitted to speak on the floor again for the rest of the day – linked article also provides a good synopsis of Miller’s previous attacks on Tlaib) after they chair ruled that his remarks “impugn the patriotism and loyalty of the member of the House, which is not in order.” Undeterred, Miller doubled down via a statement read on the floor by (a smirking) Mast (R-FL): “Yes, I said it. I own it. I stand by it.” Miller then doubled down, again, in a post on X: “My words may have been removed from the record, but Talib [sic] should be removed from Congress.” Also see: Jewish congressman rebuked after accusing Tlaib of supporting ‘terrorist regime’ on House floor (Jewish News Syndicate 6/4/26)
  • What next? In explaining their “no” votes on H. Res. 84, Democratic leadership issued a statement suggesting readiness to bring to a vote – and support – the tweaked version of the resolution introduced by Tlaib on 6/3/26 – H. Con. Res. 108 [see below]. The statement: “We stand with the Lebanese people, the government of Lebanon and the Lebanese Armed Forces in their efforts to live peacefully and defeat Hezbollah, a violent terrorist organization that is a sworn enemy of the United States. As demonstrated yesterday, House Democrats are committed to ending Donald Trump’s reckless and costly war of choice in Iran. We also do not support any effort by the Trump administration to entangle the United States in a war in Lebanon or other parts of the Middle East. Currently, there are no U.S. servicemembers involved in combat operations or hostilities in Lebanon. In our view, the best legislative vehicle to keep U.S. troops out of Lebanon is the War Powers Resolution introduced by Rep. Rashida Tlaib yesterday, with full support and input from Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member Gregory Meeks. Accordingly, we will vote No on H.Con.Res.84 and look forward to working with Congressmember Tlaib to support and build consensus for H.Con.Res.108.”
  • Media: “People are not happy”: Democrats fume about Lebanon vote (Axios 6/3/26); Congressional Progressive Caucus urges members to vote for Tlaib’s Lebanon war powers resolution [“CPC members constitute nearly 45% of the House Democratic caucus”] (Jewish Insider 6/3/26); House tensions erupt as Tlaib pushes Lebanon war powers vote (Axios 6/3/26); House rejects Tlaib’s Lebanon war powers effort (Jewish Insider 4/4/26)
  • Members on H. Con. Res. 84: In addition to statements delivered on the House floor during consideration of the measure, many, many members — both for and again the resolution — issued press releases or made statements on social media — check members’ websites and social media accounts to see what they said.

(LEBANON WAR POWERS) H. Con. Res. 108: Introduced 6/3/26 by Tlaib (D-MI), “Directing the President pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities in Lebanon.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. This version is the text of H. Con. Res. 86, with the addition two articles of construction (i.e., clarifying provisions) – the first clarifying that “Nothing in this concurrent resolution may be construed to prevent or limit security cooperation with the Lebanese Armed Forces or the protection of diplomatic facilities” and the second clarifhying that “…nothing in this concurrent resolution may be construed as authorizing the use of military force.”

————-

Targeting Free Speech/Protest

(TARGETING PROTESTERS) HR 9096: Introduced 6/2/26 by Huizenga (R-MI), “To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to revoke the citizenship of any naturalized United States citizen convicted of a terrorism-related crime.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

(TARGETING PROTEST & ANYONE IN ANY WAY SUPPORTIVE OF OR LINKED TO PROTEST) HR 9109 (bill text): Introduced 6/2/26 by Steube (R-FL), “To designate Antifa as a domestic terrorist organization, to counter domestic terrorism and organized political violence, and for other purposes,” aka the “Stop ANTIFA Act.” Referred to the Committees on the Judiciary, Homeland Security, Ways and Means, and Financial Services. Also see: press release – Rep. Steube Introduces Stop ANTIFA Act

—————-

Other Stuff

(TARGETING IRAN/HEZBOLLAH IN LATIN AMERICA) S. 4665: Introduced 6/2/26 by Curtis (R-UT), “A bill to require the Secretary of State to submit a strategy to Congress for countering Iranian and Hezbollah influence operations in Latin America.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

(TARGETING UN IN LEBANON) HR 9020 [bill text]: Introduced 5/22/26 by Shreve (R-IN) and Moskowitz (D-FL), the “No U.S. Funding for UNIFIL Act.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on Armed Services. Also see: press release – Shreve Introduces Bill to End U.S. Funding for Failed UNIFIL Mission in Lebanon

(AMEND CONSTITUTION TO BAR NON-NATIVE-BORN AMCITS FROM ALL FED JOBS) H. J. Res. 194: Introduced 6/3/26 by Mace (R-SC), “Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States to prohibit any person who has citizenship or nationality of, or otherwise owes allegiance to, a country other than the United States from serving as a Representative or Senator in Congress, a Judge of the Supreme Court or any inferior court, an Ambassador, public Minister or Consul, or any other officer of the United States which requires the advice and consent of the Senate, or the President or Vice President unless the person formally and permanently relinquishes such citizenship, nationality, or allegiance.“ Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. NOTE: As pointed out previously (multiple times) in the Round-Up (see: 4/10/26 and 5/6/26 editions of the Round-Up), per the public list maintained by the Clerk of the House, there are **26 foreign-born Members of Congress**. 

————

Media related to previously-covered legislation:

  • Ramirez (D-IL) 6/5/26: Ramirez, Members of Congress, Advocates Commemorate the One -Year Anniversary of the Bipartisan Block the Bombs
  • Jewish Currents 5/26/26: Newsletter [“NOT SO FAST: Last week in this space, we reported that a new Senate bill, the Jewish American Security Act, had been amended before introduction to remove language codifying the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance (IHRA) definition of antisemitism, which considers much criticism of Israel to be antisemitic. We suggested that the bill as it stands would not push forward the longstanding Jewish establishment goal of enshrining IHRA in federal law. Lara Friedman, president of the Foundation for Middle East Peace and an experienced tracker of Hill legislation related to Israel/Palestine and antisemitism, disagrees with our analysis. In her legislative round-up last week, Friedman wrote that the language on IHRA that was removed from the bill was immaterial, given that the bill still cites President Trump’s 2019 executive order endorsing IHRA. “Absent an affirmative repudiation of the IHRA definition and/or the articulation of a clear alternative definition—something the forces behind this bill would never accept—any antisemitism legislation adopted under the Trump administration will, first and foremost, codify into law and expand enforcement of the IHRA definition,” Friedman told Jewish Currents today. “Removal of explicit references to the IHRA definition from the bill is performative—it is about appearances, not impact. Doing so did little more than offer a pretext for some who are ostensibly concerned about that definition to demonstrate they can be part of a big tent solution.”]
  • Jerusalem Post 5/18/26: Rashida Tlaib reintroduces resolution to recognize ‘ongoing Palestinian Nakba’
  • Military.com 5/18/26: Massie Bill Targets AIPAC With New FARA Standards, Challenging Israel Lobby

2. Letters & Reports

3. Hearings & Markups

Secretary of State Rubio was on the Hill testifying at four separate hearings this week, in all of which Israel- and Middle East-related policy issues played a prominent role:

June 9 & 10, 2026: The Senate Armed Services Committee will hold a CLOSED hearing entitled, Full Committee Markup of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (June 9  notice; June 10 notice). This full committee markup will follow a week of subcommittee markups of various parts of the bill.

June 9, 2026: The House Judiciary Committee will hold another hearing targeting the Southern Poverty Law Center, The Southern Poverty Law Center: Manufacturing Hate, Part II. Scheduled witnesses (so far) are: Bryan Fair, Interim President and Chief Executive Officer, Southern Poverty Law Center; Alveda King, Chair of the American Dream, America First Policy Institute; and Ryan Bangert, Senior Vice President for Strategic Initiatives and Special Counsel to the President, Alliance Defending Freedom.

June 4, 2026: The House Armed Services Committee held a mark-up of the FY27 National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2027 (FY27 NDAA) – HR 8800 (video – part 1, part 2). Info on amendments offered to the bill in Committee (and info on how they fared) is here. At 4:36:18 in the hearing (in the Part 1 of the hearing video), Khanna (D-CA) offered an amendment to strip out Section 224 of the bill [for details on that section and the controversy around it, see Section 1, above). This was followed by members largely grandstanding against the amendment and in support of Israel – with the sole exception of Jacobs (D-CA), who spoke out in support for the amendment. In total, it took just 20 minutes for the Committee to dispense with the pretense of any real consideration of the issues Khanna raised, and for the Chair to declare the amendment defeated by a Voice Vote [NOTE: since this was a Voice Vote there is no official tally of how people voted. Notably, Vasquez (D-NM) stated in his press release on passage of the NDAA, “While I continue to support strengthening our nation’s national defense, I voted in committee to strongly oppose the President’s illegal war with Iran and to strip Section 224 from the bill which unnecessarily ties the U.S. to Israel,…We cannot reward a nation responsible for mass civilian casualties in Gaza and constant violent aggression in the West Bank and Lebanon. The illegal war in Iran, Israeli settler violence, and atrocities in Gaza must stop. I will continue to support our military and work to improve this bill as it heads to the full House.” Also see: Democrat fails to block US measure to deepen Israel military cooperation (Al Jazeera 6/4/26); House committee blocks effort to strip U.S.-Israel cooperation provision from annual defense bill (Jewish Insider 6/4/26). Ultimately the bill was voted out of the Committee (i.e., approved to move to the House floor) by a vote of 44-12, with 12 “no” votes being Garamendi (D-CA), Moulton (D-MA), Carbajal (D-CA), Khanna (D-CA), Keating (D-MA), Crow (D-CO), Jacobs (D-CA), Ryan (D-NY), Deluzio (D-PA), Goodlander (D-NH), Elfreth (D-MD), and Bell (D-MO).

COMMENT: The Committee’s discussion of Khanna’s amendment highlighted – in stark relief – the growing chasm between congressional views (bipartisan) on Israel and those of the U.S. public. With that in mind, the full text of all members’ remarks on the amendment is included below:

Khanna (D-CA): “Mr. Chairman, the American people are tired of the arrogance and insolence of Prime Minister Netanyahu telling America what we should do. The entire country of Israel has a GDP that is less than a single town in my district. Yet somehow Netanyahu thinks he could tell the American people what we should do. The person who’s most upset with him right now is President Donald Trump. And everyone in America, whether you’re a Republican, an independent, or a Democrat, says that we need to tell Netanyahu that America calls the shots, not the prime minister of any other country. They want less cooperation and blank checks to Israel, not more. Only the United States Congress would dream up at this moment. Let’s actually do more for Israel, not less. And that’s what section 224 does. It’s a pretty simple thing. Should we do more for Israel than we already do or should we do less? If you think we should do more for Israel, you should be against my amendment. If you think we should do less for Israel at the time that he’s arrogantly telling Donald Trump what to do, then you should be for my amendment. Now, let me just be clear. Mr. Netanyahu actually wrote to a member of Congress to put this section 224 into the bill. He says, I know that aid is unpopular in America. I know that even Republicans don’t want aid. So, here’s what you got to do. Quote, ‘Let’s create a new framework.” This is Netanyahu telling us what we should do, “a new framework of joint defense cooperation, co-development, co-production, and mutual investment in areas including advanced missile defense, artificial intelligence, cyber security, and next generation military platforms.” [NOTE: Khanna appears to be quoting Netanyahu’s 6/1/26 letter to Stutzman (R-IN).] Why? Because he doesn’t want Congress to vote on the aid. He just wants it fused in the bill. Last I checked, Netanyahu doesn’t have a seat on this committee. Mr. Chairman, we need to reject an amendment which his language is coming directly from the Israeli prime minister and we ought to have any aid have a vote of the American people. I am for team America. I am for the interests of this country and I believe that when Donald Trump ran, he ran America first. That includes American interests against any foreign country. We should have American sovereignty and make it clear that we strike 224. If we want to give aid to Israel, if we want to sell them weapons, that should be a vote for the entire Congress.”

Chairman Rogers (R-AL): “Israel is our closest ally in the Middle East and our cooperative programs enhance US national security by giving our war fighters access to cutting edge technologies. Section 20 uh 224 doesn’t create any new programs within the Department of Defense. It simply designates a single senior office off official to coordinate existing initiatives. Section 224 actually improves oversight and accountability of these programs by designating a single official responsible for them. Claims that this provision somehow sees authority to a foreign government are simply ridiculous. I urge all members to oppose the amendment.”

Ranking Member Smith (D-WA): “I’m actually very sympathetic with some aspects of the remarks of Mr. Khana about the frustration we have with Netanyahu’s leadership in Israel. We have endless wars now uh in Gaza, in the West Bank for that matter, in Lebanon. No effort to negotiate, no effort to find partners for peace amongst the Palestinians or the Lebanese even where there are opportunities to do that. Mr. Netanyahu insisted on this war with Iran that has strengthened Iran and weakened our position. I do not like his leadership of Israel or where he is going. But the way this amendment was described is simply not accurate to begin with and let’s be very clear on that. This is not a new framework. It’s not a new framework at all. We have three existing programs right now where we do military cooperation with Israel to develop technologies. Those programs already exist. This amendment doesn’t create a single other program other than those three. It suggests some other areas where maybe we should look at opportunities and as the chairman noted we had somebody now appointed to coordinate those programs. Amendment comes at a very bad time because of everything I just said about Israel. But let’s not forget about what the amendment actually does. And the other part of this and I agree with the chairman to say that this is us bowing to the bidding of Israel on this is completely inaccurate. The reason we’re doing this is because we benefit from that technology development. We develop the weapon systems and the reason that we have these partnerships with Israel where we not may not have as many developed partnerships with other NATO countries is because Israel’s actually been having to fight. They have faced drone attacks and missile attacks. They have had to develop new technologies, technologies that we’ve benefited from. So I agree with the sentiments and the frustrations with the Netanyahu government. I strongly disagree with the notion that this is Congress just bowing to what Netanyahu wants. This is to our benefit. Now, I would suggest, and this just occurred to me this morning, we ought to be doing the same thing with Ukraine because Ukraine is another partner that is having to fight and learning. We should develop drone technology, counter drone technology, countermissile technology. This is a partnership that benefits America. A whole host of other issues. You know, I’m a prime sponsor of the West Bank Accountability Act to sanction the actions that are going on there, things we need to hold accountable. But taking a step back from using technology that is available to us just because we strongly disagree with where Israel is at right now, I think would be a mistake. So, I think this is a program that helps us develop these technologies. It’s not an expansion. And again, I want to make it very clear, this is not a new framework. This framework has existed for quite some time. So, I hope we will not mischaracterize this and we’ll vote on this amendment that is in front of us, not on the larger issue of how we deal with Netanyahu’s government in Israel. I urge a no vote and I yield back.”

Bacon (R-NE): “I’ll keep it brief. You know, this is a win-win relationship. We have Silicon Valley, Israel has Tel Aviv, and it’s like Silicon Valley number two. We have gained so much technology advantages from our partnership with Israel and vice versa they gain as well and this is what we’re trying to do is create that synergy. They support our foreign policy. They’ve been the most supportive of us in the UN. They’re the only democracy in the Middle East. And so I’ll oppose the amendment.”

Wilson (R-SC):  “...I agree with the ranking member and that is that we benefit from our association with the people of Israel. They have been instrumental because they’re in a real war, a real war of enemies who are trying existentially to murder all the people of Israel. And with that, we’ve learned so much about anti-missile capability and to protect the American people, to protect the people, all of our allies from Turkey to Saudi Arabia, back to Azeran. And so also it should be known uh that it should be not a surprise that uh this is beneficial to the American people and that we have a regime that is chanting death to Israel, death to America, death to the great Satan which is the United States with the little Satan which is Israel. This is not uh not interconnected. And then we should also remember the Hamas covenant of August 1988 and article 7 provides to chase down every Jew behind a rock or tree until you find the last Jew behind Iraq and kill him. That’s their plan. But after that they come after us. We already see that with the nuclear capability that Iran is trying to develop with missile capability one day might even reach California.”

Golden (D-ME): “Bottom line is section 224 is a practical common sense effort to improve defense technology cooperation with one of America’s closest allies in an area that will directly affect US military readiness. I think to get to the heart of the matter in some ways opponents of section 224 are really allowing a broader broader political disagreement concerns about Israel. Some of which you can debate could be legitimate. But they’re allowing a much broader political disagreement to override a program that fundamentally advances US national security. What section 224 does not do is reduce oversight of US military sales to foreign governments. It doesn’t reduce oversight of cooperation with Israel. It does not provide Israel with access to US military data. Section 224 does not give Israel control over US defense programs or supply chains. does not provide any kind of backdoor way to hide military aid to Israel and it does not merge or fuse the US military in any way with the Israeli Defense Forces. That is all false. What it will do is increase congressional oversight and transparency over an existing partnership with Israel. What it will do is build on an existing cooperative program that has been in place for years. And what it will ultimately do is help save American lives, American service members lives in particular, and strengthen US national security.”

Jacobs (D-CA): “The United States should have the same standards for Israel as we do for everyone else. If any other country in the world had been credibly accused of violating US and international law again and again, of killing tens of thousands of civilians, of blocking food and medicine from reaching a starving population, we would not be moving to deepen and permanently expand our military ties with them. And yet, that is exactly what section 224 of this bill proposes. Since October of 2023, the Gaza Health has counted more than 70,000 Palestinians killed in Gaza, a number that the Israeli military itself has now reportedly accepted. Another 1,079 Palestinians, at least 235 of them children, have been killed in the West Bank. Settler violence has reached unprecedented levels and the Israeli security cabinet has approved 34 settlements in the West Bank, another violation of international law. But even against that backdrop, section 224 would institutionalize and expand US military integration beyond anything in the history of the relationship, fusing our defense industries across research, production, and emerging technologies. And for my colleagues who say that this vote is actually not about the actual provision, it is. Emerging technology is not an abstraction. It means cyber. And that is one field where we have already had to act against an Israeli firm for turning its tools on us. In 2021, the Commerce Department blacklisted NSL Group, the maker of Pegasus spywear for malicious cyber activity against US interest after its software was used to target government officials and journalists. Two administrations from both parties left it on that list. And that same company is right now trying to buy its way into the American market. Fusing our defense and technology sectors together permanently with no conditions in the exact area where we have already been burned is reckless on its own terms. And it would do it through a must-pass bill with almost no oversight and with none of the human rights conditions that govern the rest of our security assistance. We already have laws on the books that tell us what to do in this situation. The Leahy Law prohibits assistance to foreign militaries that have committed gross violations of human rights. The Foreign Assistance Act prohibits arms transfers to countries that are restricting US humanitarian aid. And Israel has been consistently blocking and restricting humanitarian assistance. These laws exist and they’re not being followed or enforced. And instead of demanding enforcement, this committee is proposing we reward that conduct. This committee should enforce the laws we’ve already passed and condition offensive weapons as those laws require, not permanently entrench our militaries together with no strings attached. A clear majority of Americans, 60% already oppose sending more military aid to Israel. They will not support this and neither should we. I urge my colleagues to support this amendment to strike section 224.”

Jackson (R-TX): “I actually am the author of this. to my knowledge the best of my knowledge along with my colleague Mr. Davis and I don’t know what Mr. Khanna is talking about but I never received a letter from the prime minister. So that’s complete misinformation [the letter Khanna referenced was sent to – and published by – Stutzman (R-IN), in conjunction with his introduction this week of H. Res. 1339; both the substance and wording of Netanyahu’s letter to Stutzman align quite neatly with the substance/wording of Sec. 224]. Mr. Chairman, this amendment is nothing more than a political stunt to remove a critical bipartisan provision that I was proud to craft with multiple members across both sides of this committee to get included in this year’s bill. Plain and simple, section 224 will allow the US to leverage advanced technologies that ensure our service members are prepared to fight and win against America’s adversaries by designating a Department of War executive agent to synchronize defense cooperation efforts between the US and our strongest ally in the Middle East, Israel. This provision the provision will allow us to expand and accelerate bilateral defense technology research, development, testing, and evaluation, fielding, and industrial cooperation. a relationship this committee has supported and reinforced over many NDAAs, but also ensures that we are turning our previous and current investments into real technological military advantages for US systems and war fighters. For example, last year’s NDAA fully funded US-Israel cooperative missile defense programs including Iron Dome, Arrow, and David Sling, as well as authorized funding to expand cooperation with Israel on counter UAS initiatives…counter UAS funding to expand cooperation with Israel, continue US Israel anti-tunnel cooperation program, and establish a US-Israel defense industrial-based working group to evaluate opportunities for greater collaboration on defense production. This initiative builds on that momentum by facilitating the transition of cutting-edge technologies from research and development into procurement and acquisition pathways as well as directing the US-based co-production and manufacturing partnerships. Over the last week, we’ve seen an incorrect, uninformed narrative shared by many members of this of the House on this committee that section 224 would merge US and Israel militaries together. The provision clearly outlines that integration here means integrating useful technologies into US systems, programs of record, and acquisition pipelines. The bill in no way places US forces under Israeli command, nor places Israeli troops under US command. We even require the Department of War to make available on a public website detailed information on any cooperative efforts including a description of how these efforts contribute to US technological and military supremacy. Additionally, we have included a section that requires the protection of sensitive technology and US national security interests. Those stating that section 224 is a military merger by uh merger removing US sovereign command simply have not read or do not want to understand this provision. By supporting section 224, we can leverage combat tested innovations to close our own capability gaps in stockpiles and ensure the US and Israel remain in the technologically advanced fighting force on the earth.”

Davis (D-NC): “We’ve worked on this for some time and I must admit too I haven’t received a letter from the prime minister. But let’s be clear, currently the US and Israel cooperate. Um, this amendment would not stop the collaboration. However, what it would do is hinder our ability to cooperate more efficiently. The spirit of section 224 is to help us better organize our efforts. Here it is. against bad actors around the world. These bad actors are coordinating. They’re working together in an unyielding way to effectively and efficiently inflict harm upon Americans. If we don’t coordinate and have the necessary defense systems in place, the bad actors would then exercise their free will against us. In April of 2024, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, they sent a team of F-15 East. They went over within a 22-hour window, and they began to knock about 80 missiles and drones out of the sky coming from Iran. Here’s where I’m heading. Modern warfare is quickly changing quickly. Is it best practice to use resources such as a ham ram against a $20,000 drone? We have learned so many lessons from Putin’s war. And yet there’s so many lessons for us to learn the cost of war, research, development. If we’re really concerned about cost, why not explore and collaborate in a real way to look at research and employing advanced technology? If peace is our goal, section 224 serves as a deterrent. It does. Lastly, this is not just about the United States and Israel. It’s about how we advance technology, how we innovate to protect the American people and our allies. I was deeply honored to attend the decorating ceremony recognizing those exceptional airmen at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, those brave heroes that performed their mission. And I will say in the same spirit of their dedication to the mission and this country, I ask to reject this amendment.”

Mr. Scott (R-FL): “I support Mr. Jackson and what he has put into the base of the bill. And I just want to remind my colleagues that there are over 50 Muslim majority countries in this world. There is one Jewish majority country in this world. If you want to stop the war with Israel, stop starting wars with Israel. That would be my suggestion to the rest of the world. I think that the alliance between the United States and Israel is extremely important and I for one hope that we continue that alliance and that that alliance becomes stronger as time pushes forward.”

Other Middle East-related amendments:

  • An amendment offered by Ryan (D-NY) – “PROHIBITION ON USE OF FORCE IN OR AGAINST IRAN.” DEFEATED by a vote of 26-30.
  • An amendment offered by Moulton (D-MA) – “SENSE OF CONGRESS REGARDING CONFLICT WITH THE ISLAMIC REPUBLIC OF IRAN.” DEFEATED by a vote of 27-30.
  • An amendment offered by Jacobs (D-CA) – “PROHIBITION ON USE OF FUNDS FOR CLUSTER MUNITIONS. DEFEATED by a vote of 14-42.
  • An amendment offered by Moulton (D-MA) [p. 5] – “REPORT ON COST OF UNITED STATES MILITARY OPERATIONS IN IRAN.” [“Requires a report on total financial cost of the United States’ military operations in Iran and on facility infrastructure costs associated with damaged or destroyed U.S. military infrastructure.“] PASSED by Voice Vote as part of En Bloc 6.
  • An amendment offered by Harrigan (R-NC) [p. 24] – “UNITED STATES-ABRAHAM ACCORDS DEFENSE COOPERATION INITIATIVE.” [“Establishes a U.S.-Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Initiative to bolster defense cooperation with Abraham Accords countries, focusing on deterring Iran, enhancing regional military planning, and requires a strategy and funding report to Congress within 6 months”] PASSED by Voice Vote as part of En Bloc 5.
  • An amendment (to the Report) offered by Houlahan (D-PA) (p. 33) – requiring a briefing on biosecurity threats from Iran following regional instability. PASSED by Voice Vote as part of En Bloc 2.
  • An amendment (to the Report) offered by Bell (D-MO) (p. 41) – “Directs United States European Command and United States Central Command to report on opportunities to expand defense partnerships in the eastern Mediterranean to strengthen counter-drone, missile defense, and regional security efforts against Iran-backed threats like Hezbollah.” PASSED by Voice Vote as part of En Bloc 2.
  • An amendment (to the Report) offered by Keating (D-MA) (p. 49) – “Requires a report on the impact of United States military operations, including Operation Epic Fury, on Iran’s nuclear and military capabilities.” PASSED by Voice Vote as part of En Bloc 2.
  • An amendment (to the Report) offered by Wilson (R-SC) (p. 59) – “Requires a report on the bases and malign activities of Russian forces within the Syrian Arab Republic.” PASSED by Voice Vote as part of En Bloc 2.
  • An amendment (to the Report) offered by Wilson (R-SC) (p. 60) – “Limits funding for the Iraqi Security Forces pending SECDEF certification that the Government of Iraq has taken steps to reduce Iranian influence.”  PASSED by Voice Vote as part of En Bloc 2.

June 3, 2026: The Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission held a hearing entitled, Can Turkey Find Its Way Back to Freedom? Authoritarian Consolidation versus the Defense of Turkish Democracy (hearing vide0). The hearing notice states: “Witnesses will discuss the broader trajectory of democratic backsliding in Turkey, implications for regional stability and the NATO alliance, and policy options available to the United States and Congress in support of democracy and human rights.” Witnesses were: Henri Barkey, Council on Foreign Relations (statement); Michael Rubin, Middle East Forum (statement); Serkan Golge, Senior Research Scientist, Ex-Political Prisoner in Turkey (statement); and Andrew O’Donohue, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace.

4. Selected Members on the Record

REMINDER: It is simply beyond the capacity of the Round-Up to track [let alone document] what every member of the House and Senate is saying about the US/Israel war with Iran. To see what a specific member has said, check their websites and social media accounts.

Elections & AIPAC, etc.

  • Lee (D-PA) 6/2/26: X-post – “The anti-genocide caucus grows. It indeed remains good policy and good politics!”
  • Lawler (R-NC) 6/2/26: X-post – “How in the hell has a defense witness in the 1993 WTC bombing, with ties to Al-Qaeda been nominated by the Democrats to serve in Congress? If elected in November, Congress should fully investigate his ties to terrorist organizations and determine whether he is fit to serve.“
  • Garamendi (D-CA) 6/1/26: X-post – “I’ve taken $0 from AIPAC and regularly refuse more military and financial aid to Israel, for a simple reason. Israel is conducting a genocide in Gaza. Americans deserve absolute clarity. More politicians need to be transparent about who is backing them.“
  • Green (D-TX) 5/28/26: Congressman Al Green’s Additional Statement Responding to AIPAC — “On behalf of tens of millions of hardworking Americans facing an affordability crisis, and who are in need of the billions of hard-earned tax dollars we send to Israel annually, it is time for Israel to finance its own wars.”
  • Green (D-TX) 5/28/26: Congressman Al Green Releases Statement in Response to AIPAC’s X Post– ““Afraid to come out during the election, AIPAC has finally reared its ugly head. Click here to read its insidious prevarication. I am not anti-Israel; I am anti-sending any more of hardworking American’s tax dollars to Israel. AIPAC, which has not denounced the genocide in Gaza, seems to perceive every person who denounces the slaughter of tens of thousands of innocent Palestinian men, women, and especially children under the leadership of Prime Minister Netanyahu as anti-Israel. Question for AIPAC: Why are so many candidates rejecting your once open and notorious contributions? Answer: You have become persona non grata. Shame on you for what you have condoned. Crawl back into your hole. Sincerely, your unbought, unbossed, unafraid, unelected, liberated Democrat – Al Green, The People’s Congressman.”

Pro-Israel/anti-Palestinian (incl Israel Day Parade)

  • Lawler (R-NY) 6/3/26: X-post – “It was an honor to speak at the Republican Jewish Coalition event in New York City. As we approach America’s 250th anniversary, I spoke about the values that make our nation exceptional and the importance of standing firmly with our ally Israel and the Jewish community. Thank you to the RJC for hosting a great event and for your continued leadership in strengthening the U.S.-Israel relationship.”
  • Nadler (D-NY) 5/31/26: X-post – “Proud today to march in the Salute to Israel Day Parade on Fifth Avenue in the heart of NY12! I never miss a chance to march in this parade with so many friends, neighbors, and constituents. As a lifelong Zionist, I continue to fight for the Israel envisaged in the Declaration of Independence: ‘The State of Israel will be based on the precepts of liberty, justice and peace taught by the Hebrew Prophets; will uphold the full social and political equality of all its citizens, without distinction of race, creed or sex; will guarantee full freedom of conscience, worship, education and culture.‘”
  • Goldman (D-NY) 5/31/26: X-post – “Proud to walk today in the 62nd Israel Day Parade to celebrate the State of Israel, the only Jewish nation in the world. Just as we do here in the United States, we must recognize that the Israeli government is not synonymous with the State of Israel, which was established long ago as a Jewish and democratic state and must remain that way.”
  • Stutzman (R-IN) 5/31/26: X-post – “I had the opportunity while standing on the border of Israel and Lebanon to watch the Iron Dome in action. As amazing and terrifying as it was watching the IDF shoot down Hezbolla attacks, it gave me a true sense of how blessed we are in America that this is not our reality.”
  • Fine (R-FL) 5/30/26: X-post w/ video clip – “Jihadi Mamdani has no issue with 60 Muslim-run countries around the world. But the one Jewish state bothers him very much. His true colors continue to show. I’m glad he’s not attending the Israel Day Parade in New York City tomorrow. His disdain for the Jewish people has no place in our country PERIOD.“
  • Rosen (D-NC) 5/26/26: X-post – “Hamas committed horrifying deliberate and systematic acts of sexual violence on October 7th, and survivors’ stories that have been newly exposed show the depths of these atrocities. We all have a responsibility to condemn this unspeakable violence.”
  • Mace (R-SC) 5/16/26: “We won’t sit back while Jewish Americans are getting attacked in our own country and wait for the next tragedy. We introduced the No Amnesty for Hamas Sympathizers Act, cutting off all immigration benefits and legal protections for individuals from Palestinian-controlled areas or those holding Palestinian Authority travel documents. This should never happen in America. This bill slams the door shut and keeps terrorist sympathizers and antisemitic extremists out.” NOTE – X has added a community note to Mace’s post reading: “
  • Scott (R-FL) 5/15/26: X-post – “‘Nakba’ is Arabic for catastrophe. The only catastrophe here is a mayor of New York who lets antisemitic mobs run wild to terrorize law-abiding Jewish New Yorkers while he spreads anti-Israel propaganda.” Responding to powerful video/post from NYC Mayor Mamdani on the occasion of Nakba Day.

Egging on Israeli and/or US Military Action Against Palestinians, Iran, &/or Lebanon

  • Fine (R-FL) 6/2/26: X-post – “Muslim terrorists shot 32 rockets into Israel yesterday — every single one aimed at civilians. The idea that there is a ceasefire is a fiction. I support Israel doing whatever necessary to eradicate these demons.“
  • Fine (R-FL) 6/1/26: X-post – “Israel should no more have to put up with Muslim terror rockets and drones coming from Lebanon than America would from Cuba. Bombs away.“
  • Fetterman (D-PA) 5/28/26: X-post – “I don’t know who needs to hear this but dead Hamas leaders are better for Palestinians, Gaza, the region and world.“
  • Fetterman (D-PA) 5/27/26: X-post – “Thank u, next @IDF” with pic of headline – “Hamas military chief Mohammed Odeh killed by Israel, 11 Days after predecessor slain”
  • Fetterman (D-PA) 5/16/26: X-post – “Friday, May 15: Hamas’s latest chief erased. After the 10/07 catastrophe, Israel’s commitment to fully eliminating Hamas leadership continues to this day.”

Supporting Forcing Countries to Join Abraham Accords as Condition for Iran Deal

  • Fine (R-FL) 5/27/26: X-post w/ video clip – “President Trump doesn’t do short-term fixes. He wants transformational solutions — getting these Arab countries to publicly recognize what they’re already doing in private: that Israel is a force for good in the Middle East. The President is calling on the rest to step up, recognize the State of Israel, and work together for real peace and prosperity. If he succeeds, this will be his greatest foreign policy legacy — solving the most difficult quagmire in the world once and for all.”
  • Alford (R-MO) 5/26/26: X-post w/ video clip – “@POTUS is right to push for more Arab nations to join the Abraham Accords with Israel. We were close before Oct. 7 but terrorists derailed it. Now it’s time to get back on track. Peace through strength, stability through partnership.”
  • Graham (R-SC) 5/22/26: X-post – “If in fact as a result of these negotiations to end the Iranian conflict, our Arab and Muslim allies in the region agreed to join the Abraham Accords, it would make this agreement one of the most consequential in the history of the Middle East. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Pakistan joining the Abraham Accords would be beyond transformative for the region and world. It is a brilliant move by President Trump. To Saudi Arabia and others: Now is the time to be bold for the future of a new Middle East. I expect, as President Trump has suggested, you will in fact join the Abraham Accords effectively ending the Arab-Israeli conflict. If you refuse to go down this path as suggested by President Trump, it will have severe repercussions for our future relationships and make this peace proposal unacceptable. Further, it would be seen by history as a major miscalculation. President Trump: Stick to your guns in getting a good deal with Iran. Equally important, stick to your guns in insisting Saudi Arabia and others join the Abraham Accords as part of these negotiations. Again, this is a brilliant proposal by President Trump.“

Concerns re: West Bank/Gaza/Jerusalem/Palestinians & Lebanon [does NOT include statements/posts related to Lebanon War Powers resolution voted on this week]

  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 6/3/26: X-post – “Yesterday, the IDF seized 4 students from their homes in the West Bank, including 20-year-old American, Sama Safi. The Israeli govt didn’t tell her family or the U.S. Embassy where or why she was being taken & is holding her without charges. America must secure her release NOW.“
  • Massie (R-KY) 6/3/26: X-post – “Israel has used American-supplied munitions to kill tens of thousands of innocent civilians. America is morally obligated to end support of Israel’s devastation of Gaza and its people. I’m cosponsoring the Block the Bombs Act to limit the transfer of offensive weapons to Israel.“
  • Massie (R-KY) 6/2/26: X-post – “It’s all talk. Just withhold foreign aid to Israel for a month and they’ll stop bombing their neighbors – instant peace, the Strait of Hormuz can be opened, and gas drops $2 a gallon. Israel has been, and continues to be, the biggest welfare recipient from American tax payers.” [Re: news report that Trump is mad at Bibi over Lebanon war]
  • DeLauro (D-CT) 6/2/26: X-post – “Israel’s attacks against Lebanon are disrupting talks to end the war with Iran and leading to further escalation across the region. Trump’s ‘ceasefire’ is falling apart while Americans keep paying more and more at the pump.“
  • DeLauro (D-CT) 6/2/26: X-post – “Gaza needs a major surge in humanitarian aid, and it needs to happen now. The Trump Administration claims they have a plan, but no progress is being made while people starve.“
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 6/1/26: X-post – “This must stop. Our country should not be assisting or supporting indiscriminate bombings and forced displacement anywhere, including Lebanon. We must pass the Lebanon War Powers Resolution this week.“
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 6/1/26: X-post -“Never stop fighting to stop the genocide in Gaza.“
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 6/1/26: X-post – “The government of Israel is prolonging the war with Iran intentionally.”
  • Ramirez (D-IL) 6/1/26: X-post – “The genocide has not ended. The Israeli military continues dropping US-made bombs and murdering Palestinian children. We can’t trust the word of unaccountable warmongers like Netanyahu and Trump. Congress must act. Let’s pass my Block the Bombs Act.” With screenshot of headline: “Israeli attack on Gaza City kills at least 10, including four children; More than 20 others were injured in the attack, which came hours after the funeral of the head of Hamas’s military wing”
  • Omar (D-MN) 6/1/26: X-post – “The lesson Israel has learned, time and again, is that it can commit genocide and other atrocities with near-total impunity. Now it’s exporting the Gaza playbook to Lebanon. Israel’s war in Lebanon is killing thousands and displacing over a million. NO MORE U.S. AID TO ISRAEL.“
  • DeLauro (D-CT) 5/29/26: DeLauro Statement on Israeli Strikes in Beirut and Tyre [“Prime Minister Netanyahu’s decision to launch widespread strikes in southern Lebanon and the Beirut suburbs is another dangerous escalation that threatens regional stability and risks prolonging or expanding the war in Iran. Many of these strikes took place in residential areas —a vehicle near Sidon was destroyed, killing six people including a mother and her two children. Israel also ordered evacuations and struck Tyre, one of Lebanon’s largest cities.  Lebanese families have already been devastated by months of violence and displacement. These attacks by Israel are causing more unnecessary deaths, and disrupting peace talks. I again condemn these deadly attacks and urge the Israeli government to abide by international law, protect civilians, and pursue an immediate path of de-escalation toward a lasting peace.”]
  • Reps. DeLauro (D-CT) and Casten (D-IL) 5/29/26: Op-ed in Responsible Statecraft – This isn’t about a few ‘bad apples.’ Israel is annexing the West Bank — Two members of Congress who recently visited Israel and the territory report systematic “forced emigration” of Palestinians by extremist settlers and IDF
  • DeLauro (D-CT) 5/29/26: X-post – “This February, I witnessed firsthand how Israeli settlers in the West Bank pursue violent attacks on innocent Palestinians every day. The Israeli government has allowed these attackers to roam free, with almost no accountability. We cannot afford to be a bystander any longer.“
  • Massie (R-KY) 5/28/26: X-post – “Israel is running a media op, and America has lots of useful idiots willing to make a buck on it. Meanwhile, we ignore a genocide being committed by ‘America’s best ally,’ and fight a war for them.“
  • Shaheen (D-NH) 5/28/26: Ranking Member Shaheen Statement on Continued Hostilities in Lebanon
  • Tlaib (D-CA) 5/28/26: X-post – “The genocide in Gaza continues, and there is no ceasefire. Netanyahu is openly announcing the military takeover of 70 percent, and ultimately all, of Gaza. Four more children in Gaza were killed by U.S.-funded Israeli bombs yesterday. No more excuses: Arms Embargo now.“
  • Sen. Van Hollen (D-MD) 5/26/26: The Hard Truth My Party Needs to Face; other members of House and Senate posting in support of the op-ed — Warren (D-MA), Smith (R-MN), Merkley (D-OR), Doggett (D-TX), Pocan (D-WI), Welch (D-VT),
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 5/22/26: X-post – “Over 3,000 killed. This mass murder must end. The U.S. is not a bystander in the Israeli military’s brutal invasion of Lebanon—it is an active participant. I will force a vote in Congress to immediately end all U.S. participation in this illegal and immoral war on Lebanon.“

Targeting Free Speech/Right to Protest/Academia critical of Israel/Zionism; Weaponization of Claims of Antisemitism; NGO Sector; the UN & ICC

  • Fine (R-FL) 5/28/26: X-post – “From the river to the sea, let’s make Manhattan @UN free! It is time for the United States to stop funding the Muslim terror-supporting United Nations and stop letting New York be a playground for terrorists and America-hating dictators from around the world.”
  • Moskowitz (D-FL) 5/24/26: X-post – “This is what a successful brainwashing campaign looks like. The “reality” of his social media feed. China is winning.” Responding to video posted by Washington Free Beacon journalist with comment: “WATCH — a young Jewish man who ‘grew up going to Hebrew school’ says he is now supporting @HamawyForNJ because ‘the reality of my social media feed’ made him realize that ‘Zionism is not the correct way’ and adds that ‘my friends at Rutgers helped me realize this‘”
  • House Foreign Affairs Committee (GOP) 5/21/26: X-post – “Francesca Albanese has used her position at the @UN to promote antisemitism globally, justifying events as horrendous as October 7th. The Trump administration should have all the tools needed to carry out sanctions on rogue diplomats hurting our interests and our allies.“

Islamophobia

  • Fine (R-FL) 6/2/26: X-post – “The barbarians are inside the gates.” Commenting on/re-posting post showing side-by-side photos of the World Trade Center burning on 9/11 and of NYC Mayor Mamdani.
  • Fine (R-FL) 5/30/26: X-post w/ video clip regarding NYC Mayor Mamdani not attending pro-Israel march – “Jihadi Mamdani has no issue with 60 Muslim-run countries around the world. But the one Jewish state bothers him very much. His true colors continue to show. I’m glad he’s not attending the Israel Day Parade in New York City tomorrow. His disdain for the Jewish people has no place in our country PERIOD.“
  • Fine (R-FL) 5/30/26: X-post w/ video clip – “Jihadi Mamdani has no issue with 60 Muslim-run countries around the world. But the one Jewish state bothers him very much. His true colors continue to show. I’m glad he’s not attending the Israel Day Parade in New York City tomorrow. His disdain for the Jewish people has no place in our country PERIOD.”
  • Mace (R-SC) 5/23/26: X-post – “If America doesn’t have your full loyalty, you have no business serving in our government.” NOTE: X has added a Community Note to this post, reading: “Nanny Mace has an entire page on her website dedicated to ‘Standing with Israel’ and has voted on many occasions to take money from U.S. taxpayers and send it to Israel, despite the majority of Americans opposing providing additional economic and military support to Israel. https://mace.house.gov/issues/standing-israel“
  • Fine (R-FL) 5/22/26: X-post – “This is the United States of America, not Gaza. We pledge allegiance to one flag and one flag ONLY; that is the American flag. The Muslim terror flag in Chicago should be taken down immediately.” [Photos/videos online make clear that Fine has no issue with the flying of the Israeli flag in the US – see here, for example]
  • Fine (R-FL) 5/17/26: X-post – “True statement. I’m not backing down either. Deport and denaturalize Jihadi Mamdani.” Responding to post from @LeadingReport – “Rep. Randy fine says NYC Mayor Zohran Mamdani does not belong in America.“

Other stuff

5. Selected Media

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – GENERAL

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – California

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Colorado

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics –  Kentucky

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Montana

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

NOTE: With respect to Jewish Insider article linking NJ candidate Hamawy to Al Qaeda via an NGO he volunteered with in Bosnia in 1994 (and the slew of stories it spawned), Drop Site provided in an X-post key factual background largely ignored by these stories: “The outlet Jewish Insider is attacking New Jersey congressional candidate Adam Hamawy over volunteer work he performed in Bosnia in 1994 with the Benevolence International Foundation, or BIF, later accused by the U.S. government of ties to jihadist networks. What the article leaves out is that during the very same period, a U.S. envoy under President Bill Clinton visited a BIF office in Sudan and, according to a U.S. government court filing, ‘praised BIF and its efforts to provide humanitarian relief.’ The filing also states BIF worked openly with organizations including UNICEF, WHO, and the Red Crescent. Hamawy told a local paper that after graduating medical school, he spent five weeks in Bosnia helping deliver medical supplies to hospitals during the war. ;I worked in Sarajevo for 10 days and then the rest in Zenica,’ Hamawy said. ‘We went out to hospitals around the area and in the mountains to check what supplies they needed and we tried to deliver them.’ BIF was an Illinois-based Islamic charity that operated in Bosnia, Sudan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and elsewhere. U.S. prosecutors alleged, after 9/11, that BIF leaders covertly provided logistical support to mujahideen and al Qaeda-linked figures while also carrying out legitimate humanitarian work. Hamawy has since spent decades volunteering in war and disaster zones, including Gaza, Haiti, Syria, Lebanon, Sudan, Jordan, Turkey, Colombia, Belize, and Bosnia. In 2024, he volunteered at Gaza’s European Hospital during the height of Israel’s genocidal assault on the enclave and was temporarily trapped inside after Israel seized the Rafah crossing. Hamawy also served as a U.S. Army doctor in Iraq and is known for helping save the life of current Senator Tammy Duckworth after her helicopter was shot down in 2004.” Mehdi Hassan also noted on X: “It’s an Islamophobic, guilt-by-association hitjob from @jewishinsider / @JoshKraushaar on @HamawyForNJ who volunteered for this charity in 1994, before its Al Qaeda links were known & same year the Clinton administration praised that same charity. Is Bill Clinton now Al Qaeda too?” Note that Sen. Sheehy (R-MT) responded on X to the Jewish Insider article: “Democrats are now running actual terrorists for Congress. Surprising? No. Disappointing? Yes.”

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Oregon

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Washington

Israel Day Parade in NYC

Iran

Other Stuff

1. Bills, Resolutions
2. Letters
3. Hearings & Markups

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts podcast:

  • 5/20/26: Anti-Zionism, Antisemitism, and White Nationalism ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with analyst Ben Lorber about the definition of antisemitism today and how it compares to Islamophobia as well as the dynamics around finding common cause with white nationalists.

NOTE: Due to extenuating circumstances, this week FMEP is publishing an abbreviated version of the Round-Up.

1. Bills & Resolutions

(WEAPONIZING FIGHT AGAINST ANTISEMITISM TO TARGET FREE SPEECH) S. 4576 [bill text]: Introduced in the Senate 5/20/26 by Rosen (D-NV) and 7 cosponsors (bipartisan), “A bill to strengthen Federal efforts to counter antisemitism in the United States and protect the Jewish community” aka the “Jewish American Security Act “. Referred to the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. Press release: ROSEN, LANKFORD INTRODUCE COMPREHENSIVE BIPARTISAN BILL TO FIGHT ANTISEMITISM; also see: VIDEO: ROSEN GIVES MAJOR SPEECH ON ANTISEMITISM, BIPARTISAN BILL TO COMBAT IT AT THE FEDERAL LEVEL

  • NOTE: Some have suggested that the drafters omitted language to explicitly legislate/enforce the IHRA definition in order to avoid IHRA-related controversy and with the hope that IHRA will be legislated separately in the future. This may be true, but in terms of actual impact it is a distinction without a difference, so to speak. To wit: the bill cites in its findings Trump’s 2019 Executive Order 13899 — the Trump EO, left in place by Biden, that invokes the IHRA definition and it conflating-criticism-of-Israel/Zionism-with-antisemitism examples in connection with Title VI. The bill’s findings also cite Trump’s 2025 Executive Order 14188, which cites and builds on EO 13899. By invoking these EO’s in the framing of this new bill, the bill’s drafters quite clearly lay the groundwork for implementation of the bill to involve weaponization of the IHRA definition and its examples, both via the parts of the bill focused explicitly on Title VI and via the other sections of the bill (like the section targeting social media), where it will likely be simply asserted that the IHRA definition, consistent with the 2019 and 2025 EOs, is US policy. In this way, the bill seeks to cement in law a new US paradigm for “fighting antisemitism” that is clearly grounded in the IHRA definition and its examples, irrespective of whether separate IHRA legislation is passed at some point in the future or even if the 2019 and 2025 EOs are at some point rescinded.
  • Also note: while one quote in the official press release touting the bill, many quotes/descriptions about the bill in media reports, and the text of some supportive press releases refer to – and laud – the bill as “bicameral,” as of 5am ET on 5/22/26, no House version of the bill has been introduced.
  • The bill has been endorsed and/or is being lobbied by various pro-Israel groups including the ADL, America Jewish Committee, the Jewish Council for Public Affairs, Jewish Federations of North America, Agudath Israel [see press release for full list, which notably does not include several names that are usually on such legislation – for more see comment, below]
  • Media coverage: Politico, Jewish Insider, JNS, the Forward
  • Off-the-record comment shared with the Round-Up by a well-connected observer: “There are two interesting things I see about the bill’s introduction. First, for all the talk about bicameral nature, the fact that such a high profile effort, with the level of endorsement and senior senate sponsorship, failed to get a house companion introduced is telling. Second, why are the traditional endorsers on antisemitism bills not endorsing? Where is the Brandeis Center? Where is the Combat Antisemitism Movement? Where is CUFI? Is the lack of their support why the House GOP is reticent? Time will tell.”

(TARGETING AIPAC & OTHERS) S. 4602 (bill text) // HR XXXX: Introduced 5/20/26 by Sanders (I-VT), “A bill to amend the Federal Election Campaign Act of 1971 to place reasonable limits on contributions to super PACs which make independent expenditures, and for other purposes.” Referred to the Committee on Rules and Administration. Also see 5/20/26 press release from Rep. Lee (D-PA): Rep. Summer Lee, Sen. Bernie Sanders Unveil Bill to Abolish Super PACs, Stop Billionaires From Buying Elections [same press release from Sanders], which opens: “With AIPAC, crypto and AI super PACs already spending over half a billion dollars this primary season, Congresswoman Summer Lee (PA-12)and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) today introduced legislation to ban super PACs from buying our elections”]. Also see: bill summary. NOTE: as of 7am ET on 5/22/26 the House version of the bill does not appear to have been introduced (ie, it’s not in the Congressional Record).

(CONFLATING PROTEST WITH TERRORISM) HR 8843: Introduced 5/15/26 by McGuire (R-VA) and 2 cosponsors, “To amend title 18, United States, to include property damage in acts that constitute domestic terrorism, and for other purposes,” aka the “Federal Accountability for Felony Obstruction (FAFO) Act”. Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Also see press release: McGuire introduces Federal Accountability for Felony Obstruction Act.

(ISLAMOPHOBIA/RACISM) H. J. Res. 188: Introduced 5/20/26 by Mace (R-SC), “proposing a constitutional amendment to require Members of Congress, federal judges, and Senate-confirmed officers of the United States to be natural born citizens. NOTE: Mace’s press release singles out – you guessed it – Rep. Omar (D-MN), and her X-post focuses on Omar; Thanedar (D-MI) and Jayapal (D-WA), alleging: “All born in foreign countries, none were citizens by birth. All sitting in the United States Congress. All making clear every single day their loyalty is not to America.” Notwithstanding her focus on these three, per the House Clerk, currently there are 26 foreign-born members of the House (from both parties; some of whom are citizens by birth, some of whom are naturalized citizens). There are also currently 4 foreign-born US Senators, 2 of whom are naturalized citizens. 

(ISLAMOPHOBIA/RACISM) HR 8905 [bill text]: Introduced 5/19/26 by Roy (R-TX), “To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit leaders of certain religious denominations from being admitted to the United States under section 101(a)(15)(R) of that Act, and for other purposes,” aka “the Inhibiting Militant Adversarial Mullahs (IMAN) Act.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. 

(ISLAMOPHOBIA/RACISM) HR 8906[bill text]: Introduced 5/19/26 by Roy (R-TX), “To prohibit the purchase of American Housing supply by Foreign Countries, Adversaries, and Entities of Concern and to require the divestiture of existing housing ownership,” aka “The Ban Chinese Communist and Islamist Home Ownership Act.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Iran War Powers

  • S. J. Res. 185: Introduced 4/26/26 by Kaine (D-VA) and having 9 cosponsors, “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.” On 5/19/26, the Senate voted 50-47 to discharge the bill from the Senate Foreign Relations Committee (a procedural vote that to a great degree, in this case, represents a vote on the underlying bill—all previous efforts to bring an Iran War Powers to the floor have been blocked by such procedural votes). Also see media reports: New York Times, Jewish Insider
  • H. Con. Res. 86: Introduced 4/20/86 by Meeks (D-NY), “Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove the United States Armed Forces from hostilities against the Islamic Republic of Iran.” Brought to the floor 5/20/26 and voted on (Voice Vote) — Chair declared the resolution defeated by voice vote; Meeks demanded a roll call vote, which was postponed by the chair. Subsequently Republican leadership on 5/21/26 cancelled voting on the measure, when they apparently realized they lacked the votes to defeat the measure. See: Meeks Statement on Republicans Pulling Iran War Powers Vote
  • H. Con. Res. 102:  Introduced 5/15/26 by Randall (D-WA)
  • H. Con. Res. 103: Introduced 5/20/26 by Amo (D-RI) and 30 cosponsors
  • H. Con. Res. 104: Introduced 5/20/26 by Brown (D-OH) and 2 cosponsors
  • H. Con. Res. 105: Introduced 5/21/26 by Jackson (D-IL)

2. Letters

3. Hearings & Markups

May 20, 2026: The Committee on Education and the Workforce’s Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions held a hearing entitled,  Bad Medicine: Politics, Unions, and Antisemitism in Health Care [hearing video]. Witnesses were: Deena Margolies, Louis D. Brandeis Center for Human Rights Under Law (statement); Jacob Agronin, Cardiology Fellow (statement); Eveline Shekhman,  American Jewish Medical Association (statement); and minority witness Jamie Beran, Bend the Arc (statement). Also see: chairman’s opening statement; the committee’s “hearing recap” 

May 20, 2026: The Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights scheduled hearing entitled, Hidden in Plain Sight: Confronting the Muslim Brotherhood Network in America was POSTPONED(no info yet on new date).

May 20, 2026: The House Committee on the Judiciary’s Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government held a hearing entitled, The Southern Poverty Law Center: Manufacturing Hate [hearing video]. Witnesses were: Tyler O’Neil, Senior Editor, The Daily Signal (statement); Dr. Carol Swain, Author, Commentator, Former Professor at Vanderbilt University (statement); Tony Perkins, President, Family Research Council (statement); and (minority witness) Maya Wiley,

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

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts podcast:

  • 5/13/26: Abraham Discords — Normalization and Instability, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with Matt Duss (Center for International Policy) and Zuri Linetsky (Dandelion Works) about  the destabilizing nature of the Abraham Accords; the evolution of the security dilemma and how integration may drive destabilization by fostering aggressive behavior; and whether the Abraham Accords undermined the reinstatement of the JCPOA (Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action – the Iran nuclear deal) by the Biden Administration.
  • 5/7/26: Israeli Settlements in Lebanon – a Movement Takes Shape, ft. FMEP Fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with journalist Maya Rosen (Jewish Currents) and analyst Natasha Soffer-Roth about the groups behind the nascent effort to establish Israeli settlements in Lebanon, the US-to-Israel pipeline of radical Zionists (such as Meir Kahane, Baruch Goldstein, and others), and the role that secular Israelis play in pursuing settlement policies.

1. Bills & Resolutions

Israel/Palestine/AIPAC

(TARGETING AIPAC) HR 8809 [bill text]:  Introduced 5/14/26 by Massie (R-KY), “To amend the Foreign Agents Registration Act of 1938, as amended to clarify the definition of ‘foreign principal’ and ensure transparency in lobbying on behalf of foreign interests,” aka the “Americans Insist on Political Agent Clarity Act” aka the “AIPAC Act.“ Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Also see: press release – Rep. Massie Introduces the “Americans Insist on Political Agent Clarity Act” to Require All Foreign Lobbyists to Register Under FARA; Massie X-post w/video clip announcing the legislation; Leading GOP Critic of Israel Introduces ‘AIPAC Act’ Days Before Record-breaking $25m Primary (Haaretz 5/15/26); As AIPAC Spends Millions to Oust Him, Massie Unveils Bill Requiring Pro-Israel Lobby to Register as Foreign Agent (Common Dreams 5/15/26); Thomas Massie Introduces Bill Forcing AIPAC To Register As Foreign Agent (Daily Caller 5/15/26)

(RECOGNIZING THE NAKBA) H. Res. 1289: Introduced 5/14/26 by Tlaib (D-MI) and 12 cosponsors, “Recognizing the ongoing Nakba and Palestinian refugees’ rights.”  Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see: press release – Tlaib Introduces Resolution Recognizing 78 Years of Ongoing Palestinian Nakba; 5/14/26 X-post from Zeteo’s Prem Thakker – “Rep. Rashida Tlaib has just re-introduced her resolution: Recognizing the Ongoing Nakba and Palestinian Refugees’ Rights. Co-sponsors: Carson, García*, Green*, Johnson*, Lee, McCollum*, Ocasio-Cortez, Omar, Pressley, Ramirez, Simon, Coleman. * = 4 new co-sponsors since last year“. Also see Omar (D-MN) X-post – “The Nakba never ended. The genocide of Palestinians continues as the Israeli military escalates violence in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon. I’m joining @RepRashida in co-sponsoring a resolution to recognize the 78th anniversary of the Nakba and Palestinian refugees’ rights.“; Tlaib (D-MI) X-post – “The Nakba never ended. The Israeli apartheid regime is still committing genocide in Gaza and violently erasing entire communities across Palestine and Lebanon. I’m leading a resolution to recognize the 78th anniversary of Nakba and reaffirm Palestinian refugees’ right of return.”

(PRIORITIZE HUMAN RIGHTS EVERYWHERE) H. Res. 1277: Introduced 5/12/26 by Ramirez (D-IL) and 4 Democratic cosponsors, “Recognizing, from Chicago to Palestine to the Democratic Republic of the Congo to Puerto Rico, that the pain, violence, and oppression the global majority experiences are interconnected, acknowledges that the future must be self-determined, and affirms our humanity and dignity through a renewed mandate for human rights.” Referred to the Committees on the Judiciary, Foreign Affairs, Homeland Security, Armed Services, House Administration, Financial Services, Energy and Commerce, Education and Workforce, and Ways and Means. Also see: press release – Congresswoman Ramirez, Human Rights Organizations Call for Recommitment to Human Rights, Dismantling of Systems of Oppression, including DHS and Defense

(REPORT ON NUCLEAR REACTORS, INCL IN ISRAEL) S. 4495: Introduced 5/12/26 by Markey (D-MA) and Merkley (D-OR), “A bill to require reports on the dangers posed by nuclear reactors in areas that might experience armed conflict,” aka the “Reactors at Risk Act of 2026.” Referred to the Committee on Armed Services. Includes requirement for a report on the “dangers posed to the national security of the United States, to the interests of allies and partners of the United States, and to the safety and security of civilian populations, by nuclear reactors” in regions experiencing armed conflict, including as relates to “Conflict in the Middle East, including between Israel and Iran.” Referred to the Committee on Armed Services. Also see: press release (dated 4/30/26) – As Trump’s Illegal Iran War Passes Two Months, Senator Markey Reintroduces Legislation to Prevent Nuclear Plant Catastrophes in War Zones

Iran

(TO PROTECT IRANIANS IN THE US AGAINST ICE) HR 8740: Introduced 5/12/26 by Ansari (D-AZ) and having 2 Democratic cosponsors, “To provide temporary protected status and employment authorization to certain Iranian nationals adversely affected by the adjudication pause of December 2025, and for other purposes.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. (All Actions)

(PROTECT AGAIN IRAN WAR-RELATED OIL SPIKES) HR 8803: Introduced 5/13/26 by Sherman (D-CA), “To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to impose a windfall profits excise tax on crude oil and to rebate the tax collected back to individual taxpayers until the President declares that all hostilities with Iran have ceased, the Strait of Hormuz is fully reopened, and the price of oil drops below $75 per barrel,” aka the “Stop Oil Exports to Lower Gas Prices Act.” Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. Also see: press release – Congressman Brad Sherman Introduces Bill to Halt U.S. Oil Exports, Shield Americans from Price Spikes Amid Iran War

(NO FUNDS FOR IRAN WAR) HR 8707: Introduced 5/7/26 by Ryan (D-NY) and 20 Democratic cosponsors, the “No Funds for Iran War Act.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Committee on Armed Services. Also see: press release – NO FUNDS FOR IRAN WAR: CONGRESSMAN PAT RYAN LEADS DEMOCRATIC VETERANS, HOUSE COLLEAGUES IN INTRODUCTION OF IRAN WAR FUNDING PROHIBITION

(AUTHORIZING WAR AGAINST IRAN) H. J. Res. 176: Introduced 5/7/26 by Barrett (R-MI) and Bacon (R-NE), “2026 Authorization for Use of Military Force Against Iran.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see: press release – Barrett Introduces AUMF To Limit, Wind Down Conflict in Iran and Restore Congressional War Powers Authority; MEDIA RECAP: As Congress Returns To Washington, Barrett Leads AUMF To Limit Conflict In Iran [links to coverage]; Swing-district Republican introduces war authorization to limit Iran operations – Rep. Tom Barrett of Michigan said military operations ‘are ongoing’ despite the administration’s claim otherwise (Jewish Insider 5/7/26)

(REMOVE THE US FROM IRAN WAR) H. Con. Res. 75: Introduced 3/4/26 by Gottheimer (D-NJ) and having 11 cosponsors, “Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove the United States Armed Forces from hostilities against the Islamic Republic of Iran.” Considered on the House floor 5/13/26. FAILED by a vote of 212-212. Also see: House Dems fail for third time to force Trump to get congressional approval for war against Iran [“‘This vote isn’t about whether we should crush the Iranian regime. We should,’ Rep. Josh Gottheimer stated. ‘This is about defending the Constitution.’“] (Jewish News Syndicate 5/15/26); House rejects latest Dem effort to end Iran war with split vote [“The vote ended in a 212-212 tie, with two new House Republicans voting to force an end to the war“] (Jewish Insider 5/14/26); Meeks (D-NY) 5/14/26: Meeks Issues Statement on Republicans Again Voting Against Iran War Powers; Gottheimer leads Dem effort to force Trump to get congressional approval for war against Iran (Jewish News Syndicate 5/13/26)

(REMOVE THE US FROM IRAN WAR) S. J. Res. 163: Introduced 4/13/26 by Merkley (R-OR) and having 11 cosponsors, “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.” On 5/13/26, FAILED by a vote of 49-50 [vote on a petition to discharge the bill from committee, which in effect is a proxy vote on the bill itself]. Also see: Murkowski joins Collins, Paul in voting for seventh Democratic war powers effort [“Despite the three Republican defections, the measure still failed to pass“] (Jewish Insider 5/13/26); 5/13/26 X-post from Zeteo’s Prem Thakker – “New — The Senate has just voted against advancing an Iran War Powers Resolution for the seventh time, 49-50. This time though, a Democrat was the *deciding vote.* Rand Paul, Susan Collins, and Lisa Murkowski voted to advance it. John Fetterman voted against it.”

More resolutions to remove the US from its war with Iran:

  • (REMOVE THE US FROM IRAN WAR) H. Con. Res. 99: Introduced 5/12/26 by Velázquez (D-NY), “Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. (All Actions)
  • (REMOVE THE US FROM IRAN WAR) H. Con. Res. 100:  Introduced 5/13/26 by Foushee (D-NC), “Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.
  • (REMOVE THE US FROM IRAN WAR) H. Con. Res. 101: Introduced 5/14/26 by Jacobs (D-CA), “Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Islamophobia

(LEGISLATING ISLAMOPHOBIA) HR 8756: Introduced 5/12/26 by Moore (R-IL) and 3 Republican cosponsors, “To require certain aliens to disavow sharia law and take an oath to uphold the Constitution, and for other purposes,” aka the “CRUSADE (Countering Radicalism Under Sharia and Defeating Extremism) Act.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Also see: Moore press release – Rep. Barry Moore introduces legislation requiring immigrants to disavow sharia law

(LEGISLATING ISLAMOPHOBIA) S. 4542: Introduced 5/14/26 by Cornyn (R-TX), “A bill to disqualify aliens from establishing good moral character, maintaining eligibility for asylum, and retaining lawful permanent resident status if they engage in activities in opposition to the United States Constitution, our form of government, or support Sharia law,” aka the “Ban Outsiders Openly Touting (BOOT) Sharia Law Act,”  Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. Also see: press release – Cornyn Introduces Bill to Bar Aliens Who Support Sharia Law from Entering or Remaining in the United States

(GUILT BY BLOOD RELATION) S. 4526: Introduced 5/14/26 by Cotton (R-AR), “A bill to establish a new ground for inadmissibility for close relatives of foreign terrorists.” Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. Also see: Cotton’s X-post – Relatives of terrorists have no business being in our country. My bill would revoke visas from family members of terrorists to keep Arkansans safer.; Exclusive–Bill to Ban Terrorists’ Family Members from Living in U.S. Introduced by Sen. Cotton (Breitbart 5/14/26)

————

Media related to legislation:

2. Letters

3. Hearings & Markups

May 20, 2026: The Committee on Education and the Workforce’s Subcommittee on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions will hold a hearing entitled,  Bad Medicine: Politics, Unions, and Antisemitism in Health Care. No further details are available at this time.

May 20, 2026: The Senate Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on Federal Courts, Oversight, Agency Action, and Federal Rights will hold a hearing entitled, Hidden in Plain Sight: Confronting the Muslim Brotherhood Network in America. No further details have been posted as of 5pm ET on 5/15/26.

May 20, 2026: The House Committee on the Judiciary’s Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government held a hearing entitled,  The Southern Poverty Law Center: Manufacturing Hate. Scheduled witnesses, so far, are: Tyler O’Neil, Senior Editor, The Daily Signal; and Dr. Carol Swain, Author, Commentator, Former Professor at Vanderbilt University.

May 19, 2026: The House Armed Services Committee will hold a hearing entitled, U.S. Military Posture and National Security Challenges in the Greater Middle East and Africa. Scheduled witnesses are: Assistant Secretary of Defense for International Security Affairs Daniel Zimmerman; Admiral Brad Cooper, USN, Commander, U.S. Central Command; and General Dagvin Anderson, USAF, Commander, U.S. Africa Command.

May 14, 2026: Abraham Accords Caucus discusses Hormuz, global energy crisis [“Reps. Brad Schneider and Craig Goldman raised ideas for how Congress could assist, including diversifying energy routes“] (Jewish Insider 5/14/26); Bipartisan Event Sounds Alarm About Long-Term Energy Aftershocks From Iran War (Daily Caller 5/14/26)

May 14, 2026: The Senate Armed Services Committee held a hearing entitled: Open/Closed: Hearing titleTo receive testimony on the posture of United States Central Command and United States Africa Command in review of the Defense Authorization Request for Fiscal Year 2027 and the Future Years Defense Program [hearing video]. Witnesses were: Admiral Charles B. Cooper II, USN, Commander, United States Central Command [testimony, with a lot related to Israel/Middle East/Iran]; and General Dagvin R.M. Anderson, USAF, Commander, United States Africa Command [testimony, which includes Iran]

May 13, 2026: The House Committee on the Judiciary’s Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government held a hearing entitled,  “Sharia-Free America: Why Political Islam & Sharia Law are Incompatible with the U.S. Constitution: Part II“ [hearing video]– which went exactly as one would expect.  Witnesses were: Amy “Mek” Mekelburg, Founder and Editor-in-Chief of RAIR (Rise, Align, Ignite,  Reclaim) Foundation USA (testimony); Ammon Blair, Texas Public Policy Foundation (testimony);  Marco Hunter-Lopez, Student, Wylie East High School, Wylie, TX (testimony); and Amanda Tyler, Baptist Joint Committee for Religious Liberty (testimony). Highlight from Jayapal (D-WA) – X-post with video clip – “Has there ever been legislation introduced in the US to adopt Sharia law? No. Does Sharia law require Muslims to violate US laws? No. Are there any US courts that follow Sharia law? No. Despite all this, Republicans held another hearing to promote their islamophobia. Disgusting.”

May 12, 2026: The Senate Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on Defense held a hearing entitled, A Review of the President’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Request for the Department of Defense [hearing video]. Witnesses were: General John D. Caine, Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff [testimony]; and Secretary of Defense Peter Hegseth [testimony]. Among other things, Hegseth stated: “…our allies and partners in the region can do much to advance our shared interests—and they are increasingly doing exactly that. Israel is a model ally who has repeatedly shown that it is both able and willing to fight alongside America’s forces…Model allies that step up, like Israel, South Korea, Poland, Finland, the Baltics, and others, will receive our special favor. Allies that do not – allies that still fail to do their part for collective defense – will face consequences.“

4. Selected Members on the Record

REMINDER: It is simply beyond the capacity of the Round-Up to track [let alone document] what every member of the House and Senate is saying about the US/Israel war with Iran. To see what a specific member has said, check their websites and social media accounts.

Pro-Israel/anti-Palestinian

  • Scott (R-FL) 5/8/26: X-post – “The American people shouldn’t be forced to fund this antisemitic, terrorist support agency. Defund UNRWA. Investigate. Prosecute.” Responding to New York Post X-post – “Four more UNRWA staff – including teachers – found to have kidnapped Israelis on Oct. 7, as feds weigh criminal charges“
  • Salazar (R-FL) 5/7/26: X-post – “Good to see Israel connecting with its democratic allies across the hemisphere. Strong partnerships like these will help safeguard Jewish communities throughout the hemisphere and strengthen the fight against antisemitism.”

Re: New Israeli Govt Report Alleging Mass Rape/Sexual Violence by Hamas on 10/7/23

  • Cornyn (R-TX) 5/14/26: X-post – “The sexual violence by Hamas has been aggressively denied by an antisemitic global left that wants us to forget. A new report is a reminder.“
  • Fetterman (D-PA) 5/14/26: X-post – “Confirmed: rapists, cowards and vile deviants. Volumes of incontrovertible evidence of the depravity of Hamas. NYT preemptively dropped a grotesque op-ed with sources linked to Hamas for a beachhead of “bothsiderism” Hamas defenders.“
  • Bacon (R-NE) 5/13/26: X-post – “Rape, torture and murdering innocents are barbaric. There is no place for Hamas.“
  • Frankel (D-FL) 5/13/26: X-post – “Sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas on October 7th wasn’t random – it was cruelly and systematically used as a tool of war. This new report brings more of these horrors to light, including testimony from hostages abused in captivity. For the brave survivors and memory of those murdered, we cannot be silent.” Posting about new Israeli government report alleging widespread rape/sexual violence by Hamas on 10/7/23.
  • Scott (R-FL) 5/12/26: X-post – “This is an extremely difficult read. The barbaric attacks that took place on October 7th are truly beyond words. THIS is the evil we’re fighting against. It’s why we stand with Israel and our Jewish community. ANYONE who defends Hamas is a terrorist sympathizer and absolutely disgusting.” Posting about new Israeli government report alleging widespread rape/sexual violence by Hamas on 10/7/23.
  • Fine (R-NE) 5/12/26: X-post – “These demons will never be given a state. Never.“

Re: Report of Systematic Rape/Sexual Violence against Palestinians in Israeli Prisons

  • Welch (D-VT) 5/14/26: X-post – “While Prime Minister Netanyahu has rightly condemned Hamas’s acts of sexual violence, he’s dismissed reports of similar acts by Israeli soldiers as fabrications.“

Concerns re: West Bank/Gaza/Jerusalem/Palestinians & Lebanon

  • Welch (D-VT) 5/14/26: Welch Calls on Rubio to Abide by the Leahy Law and Investigate New Reports of Human Rights Abuses
  • Ramirez (D-IL) 5/11/26: X-post – “The attacks against the humanitarian flotilla delivering aid to Gaza are unacceptable. It’s further evidence that Netanyahu has no intention of ending the siege and letting aid into Gaza. I joined @RepRashida to demand the administration uphold our laws and pressures the Israeli military to release the captive members of the flotilla, and allow it to safely continue its mission. The blockade on Gaza must end!”
  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 5/11/26: X-post – “Today marks 4 years since Palestinian-American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was shot & killed by the IDF while reporting in the West Bank. Both the Trump & Biden admins have failed to get justice for her killing. The FBI must give an update on her case & the admin must release the USSC report on her death. Silence is not acceptable.“
  • Foushee (D-NC) 5/11/26: X-post – “This is cruel and inhumane. Israel continues to kill innocent civilians with airstrikes in Lebanon, including women, children, and seniors. Congress must block arms sales to Israel and pass @RepRashida’s War Powers Resolution to stop our military from further assisting Israel’s hostilities in Lebanon immediately.“
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 5/11/26: X-post – “Four years ago today, Palestinian American journalist Shireen Abu Akleh was killed by the Israeli military, and our government did nothing. Since then, over 260 journalists have suffered the same deadly fate. We must uplift the truth in Palestine; they were murdered for reporting.“
  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 5/8/26: X-post – “Since the “ceasefire” the Netanyahu govt has steadily taken control of more territory in Gaza, squeezing civilians into tighter areas, pushing them toward the sea.  Where the hell is the Trump Admin & its so-called “Board of Peace” amidst this land grab?“
  • Liccardo (D-CA) 5/7/26a: X-post – “Humanitarian activists—including from our own community—joined a flotilla to provide aid to Gaza residents. I demand answers to reports that Israeli officials assaulted and mistreated unarmed activists detained by Israeli ships in international waters. My team has communicated with the State Department, and we seek clarity from the Israeli government. Every detained participant in this humanitarian venture must receive fair treatment, due process, and access to appropriate consular support.“
  • Jac0bs (D-CA) 5/6/26: X-post – “This is a ceasefire in name only. Israel needs to adhere to the ceasefire and work in good faith toward a permanent end to the larger war with Iran and Lebanon.“
  • Ramirez (D-IL) 5/6/26: X-post – “The unaccountable, unlawful, inhumane campaign of death and displacement continues. The Israeli government continues to drop U.S.-made bombs in Lebanon. More than 2,600 people have died, and over 8,350 people are injured. Congress can and must put an end to the violence in the region. We must Block the Bombs and pass the Lebanon War Power Resolution I co-led with @RepRashida.”

Targeting Free Speech/Right to Protest/Academia critical of Israel/Zionism; Weaponization of Claims of Antisemitism; NGO Sector

  • Fine (R-FL) 5/13/26: X-post w/ video clip – “I’m disgusted by the Muslim terror protest we just saw in New York City. We must: 1.  Deport every non-American involved — get them the hell out. 2.  Revoke citizenship for recent frauds and send them home. 3.  Stop this foreign invader invasion now. I will fight Muslim terror every day I’m in Congress.” Re-posting a link to a video clip from a NYC protest, deceptively edited to make it appear that the crowd spontaneously attacked a young Jewish woman; the full clip shows very different events, with the young woman making the initial aggressive move (running into the crowd and grabbing a flag from a protester), and people in the crowd responding; separate video from the event records the same woman harassing an ultra-orthodox anti-Zionist rabbi and then spitting on him.
  • Scott (R-FL) 5/13/26: X-post w/ video clip – “.@NYCMayor is allowing violence against Jews in his city. I guess we can’t be surprised. It’s disgusting. It’s time for ACCOUNTABILITY. Will @SenSchumer stand up for the Jewish community in NY and condemn this?” Re-posting a link to a video clip from a NYC protest, deceptively edited to make it appear that the crowd spontaneously attacked a young Jewish woman; the full clip shows very different events, with the young woman making the initial aggressive move (running into the crowd and grabbing a flag from a protester), and people in the crowd responding; separate video from the event records the same woman harassing an ultra-orthodox anti-Zionist rabbi and then spitting on him.
  • Scott (R-FL) 5/12/26: X-post – “Yes, this is getting way worse. We can’t sit back and allow this to happen in NYC. @SenSchumer, will you work with all of us in the Senate to make sure this stops and hold @NYCMayor accountable?” Re-posting a link to a video clip from a NYC protest, deceptively edited to make it appear that the crowd spontaneously attacked a young Jewish woman; the full clip shows very different events, with the young woman making the initial aggressive move (running into the crowd and grabbing a flag from a protester), and people in the crowd responding; separate video from the event records the same woman harassing an ultra-orthodox anti-Zionist rabbi and then spitting on him.
  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 5/11/26: X-post – “Free speech is free speech — you don’t get to pick and choose. If you are mad about Trump’s efforts to muzzle Jimmy Kimmel, you should be equally angry about his efforts to punish students who speak out against U.S. complicity in the horrors in Gaza.“
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 5/9/26: X-post – “Good on @RutgersU for recognizing that graduation should not platform voices that promote hate. All students deserve to feel safe and respected on campus, especially at their graduation. Rutgers made the right call.“
  • Moskowitz (D-FL) 5/8/26: X-post – “This is the exact definition of antisemitism. It’s getting worse by the day” – responding to a post/image critical of Israeli journalist Barak Ravid
  • Scott (R-FL) 5/8/26: X-post- “Not enough people are talking about this. When so-called journalism receives an award for spreading fake news about Israel, it tells you everything you need to know about where the mainstream media currently is.” Reposting a post by Laura Loomer attacking a Palestinian photojournalist who just won a Pulitzer Prize.

Islamophobia

  • Fine (R-FL) 5/8/26: X-post – ““Make no mistake — the people who are calling for damage to Jews, when they’re done with us they’re coming for the Christian community.” First they come for the Saturday people. Then they come for the Sunday people. History is screaming at us. We better listen.
”

Other stuff

  • Rosen (D-NV) 5/14/26: X-post – “Today, I congratulate the State of Israel on the 78th anniversary of its founding. For nearly 8 decades, Israel has been our closest ally in the Middle East and been a source of inspiration and resilience for the Jewish people. Here’s to continuing to strengthen the relationship between our two countries, rooted in our shared values of democracy, regional security, and the never ending pursuit of peace.“
  • Lawler (R-NY) 5/14/26: X-post – “Thank you to the Israel Allies Foundation for hosting the Israel Independence Day Celebration Dinner in Washington D.C. As we celebrate Israel’s independence, I am proud to reaffirm the unbreakable bond between our two nations.“
  • Van Duyne (R-TX) 5/14/26: X-post – “It was great to see @USAmbIsrael Mike Huckabee at the Israeli Embassy’s celebration of Israel’s Independence Day! He’s doing a great job ensuring our relationship with one of our most important allies remains strong.“
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 5/13/26: X-post – “Where is the outrage? Where are the wall-to-wall headlines? For months, Jewish communities have faced firebombings, assaults, threats, and terror — and too many people have looked away or treated it as politically inconvenient. As Iran uses social media as a tool to terrorize Jewish communities, we have a responsibility to speak out for the security of all.”
  • Rosen (D-NV) 5/10/26: X-post – “My friend Abe Foxman led the Anti-Defamation League for decades, dedicating his professional life to fighting antisemitism and standing up for Jewish people and the State of Israel. Even in one of our last conversations just a few weeks ago, Abe possessed the same deep and unwavering moral clarity that was a virtue throughout his life. I am deeply saddened to hear the news of his passing and send my condolences to his loved ones. May his memory be a blessing.   It’s now incumbent on all of us to carry on his legacy by fighting antisemitic hate and extremism wherever and whenever we see it.”
  • Cotton (R-AR) 5/8/26: X-post – “Fake oysterman/silver spoon liberal Graham Platner now claims he had NO IDEA his Nazi tattoo was a Nazi tattoo. Of course he also has a deep hatred for Israel and goes on podcasts with antisemites. What a remarkable coincidence.”
  • Lawler (R-NY) 5/8/26: X-post – “We have seen a rise in antisemitism across the political spectrum, especially on social media, much of it amplified by voices like Hasan Piker and Candace Owens, who have engaged in antisemitic tropes, and we are pushing back against it. As elected officials, regardless of party, we have a responsibility to call it out and stand against it.“

5. Selected Media

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – GENERAL

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – STILL Talking about Hasan Piker

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – California

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics –  Kentucky

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Nebraska

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Philadelphia

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Washington

Other Stuff

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

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts podcast:

  • 5/4/26: Gaza’s Disappeared, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with Mahmoud Mushtaha, a journalist and researcher from Gaza, and Obada Shtaya, the co-founder and CEO of the West Bank-based Institute for Social and Economic Progress.

Note: With both the House and Senate are in recess this week, the Round-Up is being published 2 days early.

1. Bills & Resolutions

(TARGETING QATAR UNDER PRETENSE OF PENALIZING SCHOOLS FOR ACCEPTING FUNDING FROM COUNTRIES CONGRESS DOESN’T LIKE) S. 4424 // HR 8559 [bill text]:  Introduced 4/28/26 in the Senate by Soctt (R-FL) and in the House by Stefanik (R-NY) and Gottheimer (D-NJ), “to amend the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021 to prohibit certain institutions of higher education from receiving research and development awards, and for other purposes” aka the “Defending American Research Act.” The legislation would target universities that accept funding from Venezuela, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Iran, China, Cuba, Turkey, the Russian Federation, Qatar, and “Any other country the Secretary of State determines appropriate.” Referred to the Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Also see press release: Sen. Rick Scott, Reps. Elise Stefanik & Josh Gottheimer Introduce Bipartisan Bills to Limit Foreign Influence on American Universities

(TARGETING QATAR UNDER PRETENSE OF PENALIZING SCHOOLS FOR HAVING BRANCHES IN COUNTRIES CONGRESS DOESN’T LIKE) S. 4423 // HR 8558 [bill text]: Introduced 4/28/26 in the Senate by Soctt (R-FL) and in the House by Stefanik (R-NY) and Gottheimer (D-NJ), “to amend the Research and Development, Competition, and Innovation Act to require each institution of higher education to certify as part of an application for a research and development award that such institution does not operate certain branch campuses, and for other purposes,” aka the “No Branch Campuses in Hostile Countries Act.” The legislation would target universities that accept funding from Venezuela, the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Iran, China, Cuba, Turkey, the Russian Federation, Qatar, and “Any other country the Secretary of State determines appropriate.”Referred to the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation and the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology.

————

Media related to legislation:

2. Letters

3. Hearings & Markups

May 13, 2026: The House Committee on the Judiciary’s Subcommittee on the Constitution and Limited Government will hold a hearing entitled,  “Sharia-Free America: Why Political Islam & Sharia Law are Incompatible with the U.S. Constitution: Part II.” [No further details available as of 5pm EDT on 5/6/26]

4. Selected Members on the Record

REMINDER: It is simply beyond the capacity of the Round-Up to track [let alone document] what every member of the House and Senate is saying about the US/Israel war with Iran. To see what a specific member has said, check their websites and social media accounts.

Israel

  • Jacobs (D-CA) 5/5/26: X-post – “President Trump is continuing a long U.S. tradition of holding our partners to different standards than everyone else: selling billions of dollars in weapons to Israel and the UAE – despite their atrocities in Gaza and Sudan. This hypocrisy hurts us.“
  • Meeks (D-NY) 5/1/26: Meeks Calls out Trump Admin for Abusing Emergency Authorities to Bypass Congress on Arms Sales
  • Jackson (R-TX) 5/2/26: X-post w/ video clip of speech at the Hudson Institute – “By leveraging combat-tested technology and deepening collaboration with Israel, we can maintain our military edge and strengthen our national security. That’s why I’m proud to lead the U.S.-Israel FUTURES Act to ACCELERATE next-generation defense innovation for our warfighters.”
  • Jackson (R-TX) 5/1/26: X-post w/ video clip of speech at the Hudson Institute – “Operation Epic Fury PROVES what happens when America leads alongside our ally, Israel. Through unmatched U.S.–Israel defense cooperation, we crippled Iran’s missile arsenal, destroyed its Navy, and dealt a decisive blow to its nuclear program. Peace comes through STRENGTH. When America leads with Israel, our enemies know: aggression and terrorism will NOT win.“

West Bank/Gaza/Jerusalem/Palestinians

  • Foushee (D-NC) 5/1/26: X-post – “Reports of water shortages across the Gaza Strip are deeply troubling. Israeli strikes killed a child in Gaza just days ago, and this continued water shortage emphasizes the inhumane position innocent Palestinians have been put in. I continue to call on Congress to pass legislation to stop arms sales to Israel, and take steps to protect civilians across the region.”

Targeting Free Speech/Right to Protest/Academia critical of Israel/Zionism; Weaponization of Claims of Antisemitism; NGO Sector

  • Fetterman (D-PA) 5/6/26: X-post – “Mob of Pro-Hezbollah / Hamas shitheads raging against law enforcement and terrorizing the NYC Jewish community near a synagogue and day care. Where’s my party’s condemnation?“
  • House Committee on Education & the Workforce (Republicans)  5/4/26: X-post – “We’ve led the fight to expose antisemitism in our schools—and we won’t back down. New federal complaints against the nation’s largest teachers union only reinforce what we’ve uncovered: this is serious, and it demands accountability. Antisemitism has no place in education. Period.” Responding to Free Beacon article, ‘Threatening and Intimidating’: Largest Teachers’ Union in United States Hit With Federal Antisemitism Complaint
  • Goldman (D-NY) 5/3/26: “A student organization at an American university designed to support and include a group of students has nothing to do with the Israeli government’s policy decisions.  This is hateful and vile antisemitism, plain and simple. I thank @TheNewSchool admin for swiftly rejecting this action.” NOTE: Goldman is certainly free to assert that Hillel “has nothing to do with the Israeli government’s policy decisions” — but that assertion is contradicted by the New School students’ 38- page. publicly available report documenting Hillel’s activities in support of and collaboration with the government of Israel, including the IDF in Gaza.  That report, “based on Hillel’s own published Instagram posts, application documents, tax filings, program materials, and other open source information” — documents things like: “The clearest and most direct evidence of material ties between Hillel at The New School and foreign military activity is the Hillel on Base (HOB) program, described on Hillel at Baruch’s official website as follows: ‘HOB (Hillel on Base) is a 7-day trip to Israel with all your best friends! Volunteer on an IDF (Israeli Defense Force) base in Southern Israel, wear IDF uniform, give back to the community on base, and explore Israel!’ It is further described as “a 10-day trip to Israel volunteering on an IDF (Israeli Defense Force) base. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity to help support Israel during this time…You will… be on an IDF base in IDF uniform and alongside soldiers’.”]
  • Scott (R-FL) 5/2/26: X-post – “I completely agree. It’s unacceptable for any university professor to praise chaos that glorified America’s enemies, justified violence and terrorized Jewish students. If this is what Americans are paying for, it’s time to cut them off COMPLETELY.” [targeting the University of Michigan]
  • Welch (D-VT) 5/2/26: X-post – “I encourage you to read Mahmoud Khalil’s account of the past year. It’s a chilling (and yet still hopeful) portrait of President Trump’s use of the federal government to punish Mahmoud’s advocacy for Gaza, and a warning to our country if we turn a blind eye to authoritarianism.”

Islamophobia

  • Fine (R-FL) 5/3/26: X-post – “Armenians should not serve in Congress. Neither should Somalis. Or Guatemalans. Or — wait for it— Israelis. If you are a citizen of a foreign country, you shouldn’t serve in ours. We need to pass my bill to stop the invasion of dual citizens in Congress. NOW.” Also see Fine (R-FL) 5/4/26: X-post – “If you hold dual citizenship with another country, you should not be able to serve in Congress. I don’t care if you’re a dual citizen from Somalia, Israel, Guatemala, or anywhere else. My Disqualifying Dual Loyalty Act would put an END to this problem and make it law across the board.” Both posts contain or are linked to a gif Fine has posted previously that contains images depicting Rep. Tlaib (D-MI) with a Palestinian flag; Rep. Omar (D-MN) with a Somali flag, and what I think is supposed to be Rep. Ansari (D-AZ) edited to add a chador (Iranian-style hijab with partial face covering – that she NEVER wears), with an Iranian flag. As noted in the 4/10/26 edition of the Round-Up: Tlaib was born in Detroit, Michigan; Ansari was born in Seattle, Washington; and Omar is a refugee from Somalia who became a U.S. citizen in 2000. Is it relevant that Omar is foreign-born? Well… Per the public list maintained by the Clerk of the House, there are **26 foreign-born Members of Congress**. Fine only mentions Omar — who happens to be the only Muslim on the list. Is it relevant that Tlaib, Ansari, & Omar are engaged/outspoken on issues related to the countries in which they have heritage? Well… Many, many members do likewise, incl via the many House caucuses organized around national/ethnic identities. Is it relevant that if a critic of Israel posted the exact same post/pic that Fine posted, but with pix of Jewish members of Congress who are ardent supporters of Israel, with Israeli flags on on their pix, there would be a massive outcry of ANTISEMITISM and demands for consequences — but now Fine posts this image repeatedly and NOBODY SEEMS TO CARE? In sum: Fine singles out two US-born citizens & one 26-year naturalized citizen — all who happen to be women, brown, two who are Muslim & one who identifies as secular but has heritage in a Muslim country — to accuse of dual loyalty. And there’s no outcry.

Other stuff

  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 5/5/26: X-post – “As the civil war in Sudan enters its 4th year, the RSF continues to commit genocide with impunity. As I told this Trump official — if ending this genocide is a priority we need ACTION. To get results, the US must use our immense leverage to get the UAE to stop arming the RSF.”
  • Cornyn (R-TX) 5/5/26: X-post – “You prefer a nuclear Iran, the #1 state sponsor of terrorism that has been at war with America and Israel since 1979?”
  • Cornyn (R-TX) 5/4/26: X-post – “Pathetic Schumer: Let the Iranian regime get a nuclear weapon and wipe Israel off the map.” Responding to Schumer (D-NY) 5/4/26 X-post – “GAS PRICES ARE $4.39 AND CLIMBING I stood at a gas station in Upstate NY with veterans, farmers, and families paying the price every time they fill up. This is Trump country. They don’t want to pay for his reckless Iran war. They’re saying: enough. End the war. Stop the pain at the pump.“

5. Selected Media

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – GENERAL

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – STILL Making Hasan Piker the Big Story

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics –  California

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Indiana

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Nebraska

  • American Prospect 5/6/26: Pro-Israel Super PAC Returns in Pro-Choice Clothing in Nebraska [“Democratic Majority for Israel hastily got out of the Second District race after realizing the beneficiary of its spending had disavowed the group. It’s back under a different name.“]
  • Predict Hunt 5/2/26: Will Denise Powell Win NE-02? Market Drops to 58% After Attack Ads [“The attack gained additional ammunition on April 30 when The American Prospect reported that Democratic Majority for Israel (DMFI), a pro-Israel super PAC, had planned to support Powell before she rejected the backing. DMFI then transferred its ad buy to another organization. Even though Powell distanced herself from the group, the story reinforced Cavanaugh’s core narrative: that her candidacy attracts the kind of institutional and outside money that Democratic primary voters instinctively distrust.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Washington

Other Stuff

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

Of special note:

1. Bills & Resolutions

(FY27 NSRP FUNDING, INCL FOR ISRAEL/ME) HR 8595:  As covered in last week’s Round-Up: 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 the Committee’s bill summary); on 4/23/26, the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on National Security met to consider the Committee Mark and passed it by a party-line vote, without amendment. Updates this week:

  • On 4/28/26 the Full Committee released its Report accompanying the FY27 NSRP bill (laying out Congressional intent) and marked-up the bill [video].
  • The Committee did not adopt any amendments that impact the bill’s Middle East-related provisions; one Israel/Palestine-related amendment to the bill was debated and then withdrawn; another was debated and defeated. For full details of the mark-up see Section 3, below
  • On 4/29/26, the FY27 NSRP Appropriations bill was formally introduced by Diaz-Balart (R-FL) as HR 8595.
  • NOTE: Last week’s comprehensive report on Middle East-related elements in the base bill [which were unchanged in this week’s mark-up] has been UPDATED to include full details of Middle East-related language included in the Committee’s Report.

(THE PROBLEM ISN’T ISRAELI GENOCIDE/ETHNIC CLEANSING – IT’S HASAN PIKER!!!!) H. Res. 1239 [resolution text]: Introduced 4/30/26 by Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Lawler (R-NY), “Condemning antisemitic hate-filled rhetoric and content disseminated by prominent online personalities, and urging social media platforms and public leaders to denounce and address such conduct.“ Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary, and the Committee on Energy and Commerce. NOTE: Five of the 17 “whereas clauses” focus on Hasan Piker.  Also see:

(EASTERN MED COOPERATION) S. 4443 [bill text]: Introduced 4/29/26 by Booker (D-NJ) and McCormick (R-PA), “A bill to increase cooperation with countries in the Eastern Mediterranean region in order to strengthen energy security and defense capabilities, and for other purposes,” aka the “Eastern Mediterranean Gateway Act.”  Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Also see: press release – Booker & McCormick Introduce Bipartisan Legislation to Advance U.S. Energy, Security, Economic Interests, and Partnerships in the Eastern Mediterranean

(IRAN WAR POWERS RESOLUTIONS): Democrats in both the House and Senate continued this week to introduce and press forward with Iran War Powers resolutions:

(TARGETING IRAN WAR) HR 8592: Introduced 4/30/26 by Hoyle (D-OR) and one cosponsor, “To amend the Congressional Budget and Impoundment Control Act of 1974 to provide for a point of order against reconciliation measures that provide budget authority for unauthorized military operations against Iran, and for other purposes.”  Referred to the Committee on Rules, and the Committee on the Budget. Also see: press release – REP. HOYLE INTRODUCES THE NO WAR APPROPRIATIONS THROUGH RECONCILIATION ACT

(THANKS YOU, PAKISTAN!) H. Res. 1225: Introduced 4/29/26 by Green (D-IL), “Commending the Islamic Republic of Pakistan for its efforts to facilitate peace between the United States and Israel with Iran.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Media/posts/analysis related to other legislation:

2. Letters

3. Hearings & Markups

April 29, 2026: The House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on Oversight and Intelligence held a hearing entitled, U.S. Accountability at the United Nations: Challenges and Opportunities for Reform [hearing video]. Witnesses were: Brett Schaefer, American Enterprise Institute (statement); Eugene Kontorovich, Advancing American Freedmon (statement); Stefano Gennarini, Center for Family and Human Rights (statement); and Peter Yeo, The Better World Campaign (statement). Also see:

April 29, 2026: NOT FROM THE ONION – The House Committee on Education and the Workforce’s Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development held a hearing entitled, “Speech or Silence? The Future of the First Amendment in Higher Education” [video]. Witnesses were: Tyson Langhofer, Alliance Defending Freedom (statement); Jud Horras, North American Interfraternity Conference (statement); Emerson Sykes, American Civil Liberties Union (statement); and Steven McGuire, American Council of Trustees and Alumni, Philadelphia (statement). Also see: Chairman Owens opening statement [“Colleges and universities should strive to cultivate intellectual diversity on campus by exposing students to new, and sometimes controversial, ideas they may not agree with…” – unspoken in this sentence: “except when those ideas are critical of Israel/Zionism or supportive of Palestinian lives/rights”]; from the Committee: Hearing Recap: “Speech or Silence? The Future of the First Amendment in Higher Education”

April 28, 2026: The House Appropriations Committee held a Full Committee mark-up [video] of the FY27 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations bill. In conjunction with this mark-up the Committee also released its Report accompanying the FY27 NSRP bill (laying out Congressional intent). To see how the mark-up went down in real time, see this live-posted thread on X from the hearing, by A New Policy’s Josh Paul. Key things to note:

  • The Committee did not pass any Middle East-related amendments to the bill [so last week’s comprehensive report on Middle East-related elements in the bill remains accurate].
  • Two Israel/Palestine-related amendments were offered by Quigley (D-IL): an amendment [see page 21] to bar funding in the bill from being used “for any activity that facilitates the expansion of outposts or settlements or the damage or demolition of homes, schools, farms, orchards, or other civilian property in the West Bank or Gaza” [WITHDRAWN BY QUIGLEY AFTER EXTENSIVE DEBATE IN COMMITTEE] and an amendment [see page 22] to require that “Not less than $400,000,000 shall be made available for reconstruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza, including water, sanitation, and electrical grids: Provided further, That such funds shall be administered only through vetted international organizations and non-governmental organizations” [DEFEATED by a vote of 25-32]. Also see Quigley’s 4/30/26 X-post w/ video clip: “This week, I spoke up during a markup of the Appropriations Committee’s foreign affairs funding bill. The American people have been crystal clear—they want us to reexamine how we provide aid to foreign countries. This discussion needs to include the aid we provide to Israel.“
  • Members on Quigley amendments: Pocan (D-WI) X-post w/ video clip – “Today, I spoke in support of @RepMikeQuigley’s amendment in the Appropriations Committee to provide urgently needed funding to help rebuild Gaza and give Gazans the help they desperately need.“
  • Following a nearly 8-hour mark-up, the bill was passed by a party-line vote of 35-27. See: Republican press release – Committee Approves FY27 National Security, Department of State Appropriations Act; Democratic press release – State, Foreign Operations Funding Bill Forfeits American Influence to Adversaries while President Trump Pursues Deadly, Costly War with Iran and Furthers the Cost-of-Living Crisis
  • NOTE: Last week’s comprehensive report on Middle East-related elements in the base bill has been UPDATED to include full details of Middle East-related language included in the Committee’s Report.
  • Member press releases/social media posts: Diaz-Balart (R-FL) praising Israel elements in the bill; McCollum (D-MN) 4/28/26: X-post w/ video clip – “We are watching the two-state solution evaporate in front of our eyes. I have legislation to ensure that U.S. taxpayer dollars are not used to violate human rights in the West Bank. Congress should pass it now.“Alford (R-MO) – “The FY2027 National Security & State Department bill advances @POTUS’ America First agenda. We’re standing strong with allies like Israel & Taiwan, holding Communist China & Iran accountable, cutting wasteful spending, and protecting American taxpayers. Thank you to my good friend @MarioDB for his leadership in drafting this bill.“; Womack (R-AR) – “FY27 funding bills advanced by @HouseAppropsGOP. The FY27 National Security and State Department funding bill strengthens U.S. foreign policy by supporting key allies like Israel and Taiwan while countering foreign adversaries. I thank my good friend, @MarioDB, for his leadership in drafting this bill.” Diaz-Balart (R-FL) – “The FY27 National Security & Dept of State funding bill maintains robust support for key U.S. allies and partners such as Taiwan and Israel.“
  • AIPAC X-post lobbying in support of pro-Israel provisions in the base bill;
  • House Appropriations Committee debates measure to condition U.S. aid to Israel (Jewish Insider 4/29/26)

4. Selected Members on the Record

REMINDER: It is simply beyond the capacity of the Round-Up to track [let alone document] what every member of the House and Senate is saying about the US/Israel war with Iran. To see what a specific member has said, check their websites and social media accounts.

WE LOVE ISRAEL!

  • Jackson (R-TX) 4/30/26: X-post – “It was great to join @hudsoninstitute today to discuss how Operation Epic Fury highlights the strength of U.S.-Israel coordination in advancing next-generation defense capabilities. I’m proud to build on that momentum with my FUTURES Act, which strengthens innovation and deepens our strategic partnership.“
  • Alford (R-MO) 4/29/26: X-post w/ video clip – “Stronger together. America First means stronger alliances. Proud of our special relationship with Israel — from Truman in 1948 to the great reset happening now under Secretary Rubio. Relationships evolve, + shared interests…like stopping Iran’s nuclear threat…come first.“
  • Budd (R-NC) 4/28/26: X-post – “I’ve long supported our partnership with Israel to combat terrorism, specifically our joint research to counter threats from drones. This doesn’t just help Israel defeat Iran & Hamas, but also helps protect our homeland & deployed troops with advanced technologies.”
  • Fine (R-FL) 4/24/26: X-post w/ video clip – “When my colleagues visited Israel last August, they saw Christian holy sites there and in Bethlehem. They told me that the birthplace of Jesus felt unrecognizable compared to the well-kept holy sites in Israel. Israel doesn’t care just about protecting the Jewish people; they care about protecting Christians too. Truth should matter to the groypers.”
  • McClain (R-MI) 4/24/26: X-post – “Prime Minister @Netanyahu has spent his life defending his country and standing alongside America against our common enemies. I’m praying for his recovery, and for the enduring strength of the U.S.-Israel alliance.“

West Bank/Gaza/Jerusalem/Palestinians

  • Doggett (D-TX) 4/29/26: X-post – “@elgindy_ , @JaninaDill, and Brad Brooks-Rubin to discuss Israeli settler terrorism of West Bank Palestinians and Netanyahu’s policy of impunity and illegal settlement expansion. Lasting peace requires justice, dignity, and a two-state future, which the right-wing Israeli government is determined to block.“

Lebanon

  • Ramirez (D-IL) 4/27/26: X-post – “Amal Khalil is the 9th journalist killed by Israeli strikes in Lebanon this year. Whether in Gaza or Lebanon, the Netanyahu government continues to blatantly violate international law using U.S. supplied weapons. We must demand accountability. We must pass the Block the Bombs Act. Not one more dollar. Not one more excuse. Not one more bomb.“
  • Foushee (D-NC) 4/27/25: X-post – “Reports indicate that 14 people were killed in strikes in Lebanon yesterday, including women and children. This war that is claiming the lives of innocent civilians must end and I continue to call on my colleagues to join me in supporting @RepRashida’s War Powers Resolution to prevent U.S. involvement in Israel’s hostilities in Lebanon.“
  • Slotkin (D-MI) 4/25/26: X-post w/ video clip – “An update on the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon.”

Targeting Free Speech/Right to Protest/Academia critical of Israel/Zionism; Weaponization of Claims of Antisemitism; NGO Sector

  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 4/27/26: X-post – “Outrageous. Trump plans to deny legal residency in the US based on whether he agrees with your speech.   Since when did it become ‘anti-American’ to criticize the actions of a foreign government? Who is he fighting for?”
  • Moore (D-WI) 4/26/26: X-post – “The United States should not jail anyone for exercising free speech. I will continue to advocate for Mr. Sarsour’s immediate release from ICE detention.“

Other stuff

  • Schumer (D-NY) 4/29/26: X-post – “Trump attacks Disney but greenlights Saudi and Arab Gulf States owning American media and TV stations?   The same sovereign wealth funds that he and his family do business with and rake in millions from?“
  • Levine (D-CA) 4/29/26: X-post – “Let me get this straight. The Trump Administration is floating financial support for the United Arab Emirates, an oil-rich Gulf state that has poured billions of dollars into Trump’s family business, while telling the American people there is no money for day care, Medicare, or Medicaid. Those are the President’s own words: “We can’t take care of day care, Medicaid, Medicare, all these individual things.” This Administration can’t seem to find money for the American people, but they have no problem finding it to bail out the UAE.”

5. Selected Media

About that story that went viral this week…

  • On 4/23/26, Military.com published a sensational article entitled, The Emerging Push to Extend Some US Benefits to IDF Soldiers. That article opened: “A real policy push has emerged in the United States to extend certain legal protections to Americans who serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF).”
  • That article reported on HR 8445, a bill introduced 5/17/24 by Reschenthaler (R-PA) and Miller (R-OH); covered in the 5/24/24 edition of the Round-Up; and reported on by Mondoweiss on 5/22/24.
  • While correctly describing the substance of the HR 8445, the military.com article (as originally published) – spoke about the bill, both in the headline and text, in the present tense, leading readers to incorrectly believe this is a piece of legislation CURRENTLY in play in Congress.
  • In reality, HR 8445, after gaining no additional cosponsors or momentum, and never getting a hearing (let alone a vote), DIED at the end of the 118th Congress (end of 2024), has so far not been re-introduced in the current Congress, and has not been the subject of any public statements by the authors of any intent to re-introduce it.
  • What this means is that HR 8445 DOES NOT EXIST in this Congress to support or object to. But this inconvenient fact did not prevent the military.com article — and the (wholly understandable) outrage the article provoked — from going viral across social media platforms, where the article was picked up/amplified by serious people and outlets that apparently didn’t read the article carefully enough to realize military.com’s very obvious error.
  • Likely in light of a many people on social media (including this writer) publically calling out the inaccuracies of the article and trying to set the record straight, on 4/27/26, military.com quietly “updated” the article’s headline to read: “The 2024 IDF Bill and the Question of Extending US Military Protections — Some U.S. lawmakers have sought protections for Americans serving in the IDF, raising questions about fairness since US benefits traditionally depend on service to the United States” [the original headline is still visible in the link]. The site also edited the article in numerous places to put verbs in the past tense and otherwise make clear that this is a story about something from the past, not present, Congress. Notably, military.com did not include any explanation or acknowledgement of the edits made. 

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – GENERAL

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – STILL Making Hasan Piker the Big Story [Note: Hasan Piker figures into other articles included in this Round-Up; this sub-section is limited to post explicitly focused on Piker. Also see Section 1, above, for a Piker-related resolution!]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Alaska

  • Alaska Public Media 4/28/26: 7 things to know about money in Alaska’s U.S. Senate race [“…AIPAC, the American Israel Political Action Committee, conveyed about $250,000 in individual contributions to Sullivan. Technically, these are pass-through contributions from donors around the country, not PAC contributions. AIPAC acted as a conduit.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics –  California

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia

  • The Center Square 4/30/26: Six Democrats seeking 13th Congressional District post [“Fauntleroy has also criticized Israel’s military action in Palestine. He has committed to rejecting campaign donations from groups aligned with Israel, including the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, a large, bipartisan pro-Israel lobbying group. ‘As a small business owner, I know how to look at a budget and identify where excess money is being spent,’ Fauntleroy said. ‘Instead of giving our money to Israel, our tax dollars belong here in our community to fund Medicare for all.’”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Massachusetts

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Nebraska

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Tennessee

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Utah

  • Deseret News 4/28/26: Opinion: Utahns must reject antisemitism at the polls this election season [“…By focusing solely on a Jewish organization funded by American Jewish voters and the lone Jewish nation — and not on any other issues or PACs — Blouin is sending the message that “Jews are interfering in Utah politics, this election, and are responsible if I lose,” reinforcing fears for safety for Utah Jews.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Virginia

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – West Virginia

Other Stuff

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

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts Podcasts:

—————————-

1. Bills & Resolutions

(FY27 NSRP FUNDING, INCL FOR ISRAEL/ME) HR XXXX: 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 the Committee’s bill summary). On 4/23/26, the House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on National Security met to consider the Committee Mark and passed it by a party-line vote, without amendment. The Full Committee is scheduled to mark-up the bill on 4/28/26.

Comprehensive details of Israel/Middle East-related provisions in the Committee Mark are available here.

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:

  • 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 on 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)]. Also see: House Republicans again aim to leverage U.S. funding to seek accountability for Oct. 7 attacks (Jewish Insider 4/24/26)
  • 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 one of 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.

(DENATURALIZE/DEPORT MUSLIMS & PRETTY MUCH ANYONE ELSE THE EXEC TARGETS) HR 8387 [bill text]: Introduced 4/20/26 by Roy (R-TX) and 7 Republican cosponsors, all of whom are members of Roy’s “Shariah Free America Caucus” [Moore (R-AL), Self (R-TX), Ogles (R-TN), Fine (R-FL), Brecheen (R-OK), Miller (R-IL) and Gill (R-TX)],  “To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to limit alien eligibility for admission and naturalization and enable deportation and denaturalization for any membership, affiliation, or advocacy of socialist, communist, Chinese communist, Marxist, or Islamic fundamentalist doctrines, and for other purposes” aka”Measures Against Marxism’s Dangerous Adherents and Noxious Islamists Act of 2026’” aka the “MAMDANI Act.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Also see Roy’s press release – Rep. Roy Introduces MAMDANI Act to Denaturalize and Deport Marxists and Islamic Fundamentalists. The bill – which of course is targeted first and foremost at naturalized U.S. citizens who are Muslim (like Mayor Mamdani – in practice would lay the groundwork for the denaturalization/deportation of almost anyone the Executive decided to target, via a combination of: (a) broad, vague, and far-reaching language/definitions [including defining the “socialist party” to include “the Democratic Socialists of America, or any section, subsidiary, branch, affiliate, or subdivision of such organization“; (b) broad expansion of current authorities, including to enable targeting people for what they said/wrote dating back to the ago of 14; and (c) denying any legal recourse to individuals targeted under the bill.  NOTE: Also see: Exclusive: Chip Roy to Introduce ‘MAMDANI Act’ Targeting Communists, Marxists, Socialists, Islamists in Immigration System (Breitbart 4/20/26). NOTE: As it happens, this is the second MAMDANI Act introduced by Republicans in the current Congress. As a reminder, the original MAMDANI Act was introduced by Carter (R-GA) back on 11/7/25 – HR 5937 [Carter press release – Carter introduces MAMDANI Act, restricting federal funds to New York City; GOP rep introduces ‘Mamdani’ bill to block federal funds to NYC (Jewish News Syndicate 11/8/25)]

(EXPLOTING CONCERNS ABOUT ANTISEMITISM TO TARGET ACADEMIA/FREE SPEECH) HR 8476: Introduced 4/23/26 by Fine (R-FL) and Tenney (R-NY), “To require each local educational agency and institution of higher education that receives Federal financial assistance to treat discrimination motivated by antisemitism as vigorously as such agency or institution treats other forms of discrimination prohibited by title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and for other purposes.” Referred to the Committee on Education and Workforce, and the Committee on the Judiciary. NOTE: no text is available yet, but it is a good bet this is a bill that would enforce/weaponize the IHRA definition of antisemitism, including its examples conflating criticism of Israel/Zionism with antisemitism.

(TARGETING RIGHT TO PROTEST FOR PALESTINIAN LIVES/RIGHTS): On 4/24/26, Jewish Insider published – Tom Suozzi introduces federal buffer zone bill protecting synagogues, religious institutions [not yet showing up in the Congressional Record]. The article confirms that the catalyst for this legislation is protest related to Israel’s genocide in Gaza and Israel’s settlement enterprise in the West Bank, which in some case have targeted pro-Israel events (including settlement real estate sales events) held at or near Jewish places of worship – “Suozzi told Jewish Insider the bill was prompted by constituents from various religious communities who have expressed concern about ‘aggressive action’ against them at their places of worship. The spate of incidents outside synagogues has been ‘very disturbing,’ Suozzi said, adding that he’s been hearing an unprecedented amount of fear and concern from Jewish friends and supporters since the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas attacks…”

Iran War Powers Resolutions:

Related to Iran War Powers Resolutions:

Responsible Statecraft 4/22/26: GOP senators want to give Trump official blessing for Iran war [“A vote for an Authorization for Military Force would put lawmakers on record backing a conflict they’ve largely supported indirectly“]

4/22/26 press release from Barrett (R-MI) – Recalibrating American Foreign Policy – Ending Endless Wars and Promoting Peace Through Strength – announcing slate of legislation including:

  • HR 8436: Introduced 4/22/26 by Barrett (R-MI), “To repeal the joint resolution entitled “A joint resolution to promote peace and stability in the Middle East“. Barrett: “The Cold War Military Force Repeal Act would revoke the outdated 1957 AUMF that is still on the books authorizing the president to use force to fight communism in the Middle East.”
  • HR 8434: Introduced 4/22/26 by Barrett (R-MI), “To prohibit an authorization for use of military force which authorizes such force for a period longer than 5 years or an unspecified period of time from receiving congressional priority procedures. Barrett: “The Military Force Oversight Amendment would amend the Constitution to require any AUMF to expire automatically after five years unless reauthorized by Congress. This will prevent endless wars by forcing the people’s representatives to review each conflict and vote on whether keeping our troops overseas is actually protecting the American people and our national interests.“
  • H. J. Res. 159: Introduced 4/22/26 by Barrett (R-MI), “Proposing an amendment to the Constitution of the United States relating to the duration of authorizations of the use of force.” Barrett: “The Prevent Endless Wars Act would provide another safeguard to avoid endless wars and ensure Congress conducts critical oversight. The bill would only allow AUMFs to receive fast-tracked consideration in Congress if they contain a sunset of no longer than five years.“
  • HR 8435: Introduced 4/22/26 by Barrett (R-MI), “To amend the War Powers Resolution to provide for priority procedures for joint resolutions, and for other purposes.” Barrett: “The War Powers Priority Procedures Modernization Act would give the House of Representatives additional tools to fast-track votes to end unauthorized military force.”

—————-

Media/posts/analysis related to other legislation:

2. Letters

3. Hearings & Markups

April 29, 2026: The House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on Oversight and Intelligence will hold a hearing entitled, U.S. Accountability at the United Nations: Challenges and Opportunities for Reform. Scheduled witnesses are: Brett Schaefer, American Enterprise Institute; Eugene Kontorovich, Advancing American Freedmon;  Stefano Gennarini, Center for Family and Human Rights; and Peter Yeo, The Better World Campaign.

April 29, 2026: NOT FROM THE ONION – The House Committee on Education and the Workforce’s Subcommittee on Higher Education and Workforce Development will hold a hearing entitled, “Speech or Silence? The Future of the First Amendment in Higher Education” [press release]. No details on witnesses are available as of this writing.

April 28, 2026: The House Appropriations Committee will hold a Full Committee mark-up of the FY27 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations bill.

April 23, 2026: The House Appropriations Committee’s Subcommittee on National Security met to consider the Committee Mark of the FY27 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations bill and passed it by a party-line vote, without amendment. See Section 1, above, for details. Also see:

April 21, 2026: The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe held a hearing, Iran’s Support for Russia and Lessons Learned from Ukraine [video]. Witnesses were: Ilan Berman, American Foreign Policy Council (statement); Behnam Ben Taleblu, FDD; and Aaron Zelin, WINEP (statement).

4. Selected Members on the Record

REMINDER: It is simply beyond the capacity of the Round-Up to track [let alone document] what every member of the House and Senate is saying about the US/Israel war with Iran. To see what a specific member has said, check their websites and social media accounts.

Israel/AIPAC & US politics/elex – general

  • Cornyn (R-TX) 4/22/26: X-post – “Democrats’ TDS has gone so far that they’re rooting for Iran over America and our ally, Israel.   40 Dems voted against aid to Israel this year, some of which was strictly for Israel’s self-defense against terrorists who wish it harm.   Clearly, the radical base has taken over the Democrat party & has forced Dems to side with the brutal Iranian regime just to spite the President.   I have & ALWAYS will support America & our allies — that shouldn’t be controversial.“
  • Frankel (D-FL) 4/22/26: X-post – “Yom Huledet Sameach, Israel! On Israel’s Independence Day, we celebrate the strength and resiliency of the Israeli people, honor the enduring bond between our two nations, and continue pursuing a more peaceful future.”
  • Carson (D-IN) 4/22/26: X-post – “J Street PAC, a leading Jewish American organization, is an invaluable voice for diplomacy and peace. They have supported many of my bills, including my bill to restore UNRWA humanitarian aid to Gaza. I’m honored to have their partnership and support.“
  • Sanders (I-VT) 4/22/26: X-post – “Super PACs like AIPAC, AI and crypto are buying elections with billionaire money. We’ll never address the major crises facing our country as long as that continues. We must overturn Citizens United and kick billionaire-funded super PACs OUT of Democratic primaries NOW.“
  • Fetterman (D-PA) 4/22/26: X-post – “In the face of consistent attacks, past and present, our special ally and its people have shown true strength and resilience. Israel: I’m proud to stand on the right side of history, and this voice and vote will never waver. Happy Independence Day!“
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 4/22/26: X-post – “Insane! The Michigan Democratic Party just nominated a candidate to be a University of Michigan Regent who has publicly praised Hezbollah terrorists as “martyrs” and called Israelis “demons” who “lie, cheat, murder and blackmail.” At a university with a large and vibrant Jewish student population, this is a disgrace that puts Jewish students at risk.“
  • Sanders (I-VT) 4/21/26: X-post – “It’s not just Gaza, Iran and Lebanon. In the West Bank since October 2023, Israeli soldiers and settlers have: Killed 1,071 Palestinians Demolished 6,000+ homes Built 200+ illegal outposts No more U.S. military aid to Israel.“
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 4/21/26: X-post – “Insane! The Michigan Democratic Party just nominated a candidate to be a University of Michigan Regent who has publicly praised Hezbollah terrorists as “martyrs” and called Israelis “demons” who “lie, cheat, murder and blackmail.” At a university with a large and vibrant Jewish student population, this is a disgrace that puts Jewish students at risk.“
  • Massie (R-KY) 4/21/26: X-post w/ images – “The mask is off. AIPAC’s Democrat-focussed pro-abortion super PAC, United Democracy Project, is now helping Woke Eddie. They just bought $790,000 of ads against me this week. Here’s an example of ads they run for democrats.”
  • Massie (R-KY) 4/21/26: X-post – “The fact that AIPAC has resorted to using its pro-abortion super PAC shows how desperate they are to breathe life into their empty suit. Millions of dollars won’t make up for the fact that he’s AWOL on the campaign trail. He’s skipped seven debates so far.“
  • Blackburn (R-TN) 4/20/26: X-post – “This isn’t the first time @AbdulElSayed has sympathized with terrorists. He also refused to make a statement on the assassination of Ayatollah Khamenei to avoid upsetting other terrorist sympathizers. He has absolutely no business being in the U.S. Senate.”
  • Khanna (D-CA) 4/20/26: X-post – “The free ride is over. Israel has a $45 billion defense budget. I am Team America.”
  • Carey (R-OH) 4/20/26: X-post – “It was a pleasure to be a panelist at Mayerson JCC alongside Congressman Greg Landsman. We spoke about America’s relationship with Israel and the broader geopolitical situation in the Middle East.“
  • Bacon (R-NE) 4/20/26: X-post – “I was grateful to meet with Lt Gen Collins of the Missile Defense Agency, who testified before @HASCRepublicans last week, where I raised concerns about the growing gap between missile threats & our ability to respond. I helped stand up long-range missile defense in Israel focused on Iran in 2009–2010, and it has paid off. We must accelerate production to keep pace & strengthen our defenses.”
  • Khanna (D-CA) 4/19/26: X-post – “AIPAC says I’m not Team America. Why? Because I want to spend the $400b to make college & trade schools free and childcare $10 day. Not on the Trump/Netanyahu alliance for an illegal, immoral war in Iran.“
  • Khanna (D-CA) 4/19/26: X-post – “No taxpayer $$ to Israel. No Israeli PM in Situation Room. End occupation. I am Team America. Trump is obsessed with war in the Middle East. It’s time for a new generation for a new moral direction for Democrats.“

Israel/West Bank/Gaza/Jerusalem

  • Khanna (D-CA) 4/21/26: X-post – “Activists on the Global Sumud Flotilla are putting their lives on the line to challenge Israel’s unlawful blockade on the occupied Gaza Strip. I am immensely proud of this international showing of solidarity, and applaud the courage on display.“
  • Pocan (D-WI) 4/19/26: X-post – “We need answers. When @UNICEF drivers delivering water in Gaza are killed, we are back to the same old deadly behavior of Netanyahu. One war temporarily ends & he finds a new one. No wonder more in Congress are standing up for peace, meaning a moratorium on funding for Israel.” Linked to UNICEF X-post – “UNICEF is outraged by the killing of two drivers of trucks contracted by UNICEF to provide clean water to families in the Gaza Strip. The victims were killed by Israeli fire in an incident that took place early this morning at the Mansoura water filling point in northern Gaza. UNICEF extends our condolences to the families of the men killed.“
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 4/18/26: X-post – “The genocidal government of Israel is obsessed with killing medics, and humanitarian workers. No one is safe from this unhinged murderous regime.” Linked to Al Jazeera X-post: “BREAKING: UNICEF ‘outraged’ Israeli forces killed 2 water truck drivers in northern Gaza“
  • Stansbury (D-NM) 4/18/26: X-post – “Earlier this week, another global flotilla mission left Spain to deliver food, medicine, and water to Gaza. We are calling for an end to inhumane blockade to Gaza and to allow these supplies in. The world is watching. History will remember.“
  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 4/18/26: X-post w/ video clip – “Israeli Defense Minister Katz said he wants to do in Lebanon what was done in Rafah. I’ve seen firsthand how the Netanyahu government razed Rafah to the ground. No American taxpayer dollars should be used to support this.“

Lebanon

  • Omar (D-MN) 4/23/26: X-post – “Israel murdered Lebanese journalist Amal Khalil. Killing journalists in a war zone is a war crime, and Israel has been doing it with impunity for years. The U.S. cannot continue to be complicit in Israel’s crimes against humanity.“
  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 4/23/26: X-post – “Yesterday, journalist Amal Khalil was struck by an IDF airstrike while she was reporting in southern Lebanon. As rescuers tried to save her life, they were fired upon. 
Khalil is the 9th journalist killed by Israeli strikes in Lebanon this year. I join the Committee to Protect Journalists & others in demanding an international investigation and accountability for her death.“
  • Wicker (R-MS) 4/22/26: X-post – “Hezbollah’s killing of a French service member in southern Lebanon, only days after Israel agreed to a ceasefire, is a critical test for the Lebanese Armed Forces. Congress should not support the LAF unless it acts to disarm Hezbollah completely — and immediately.”
  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 4/22/26: X-post – “Netanyahu says he’s ‘saddened’ by images of an IDF soldier defacing a crucifix in Lebanon. But if he truly cared about attacks against Christians, he’d end rampant settler violence against them in the West Bank & harassment in Jerusalem. Being sad isn’t enough, DO SOMETHING!“
  • Risch (R-ID) 4/21/26: X-post – “Agree with my colleague @SenatorWicker. Well past time for the LAF to take tangible action to fully disarm Hezbollah & for the Lebanese government to follow through on long-promised economic reform. The era of complacency & unconditional bailouts must come to an end.“
  • Rosen (D-NV) 4/21/26: X-post – “I condemn this act of desecration and destruction of a Christian religious statue in Lebanon by IDF soldiers. It is unacceptable and goes against Jewish values of tolerance and respect for all religious faiths.    I’m glad to see that the perpetrators are being held accountable and the statue has been replaced.“
  • Wicker (R-MS) 4/20/26: X-post – “Hezbollah’s killing of a French service member in southern Lebanon, only days after Israel agreed to a ceasefire, is a critical test for the Lebanese Armed Forces. Congress should not support the LAF unless it acts to disarm Hezbollah completely — and immediately.“
  • Hill (R-AR) 4/20/26: X-post – “This is inexcusable and offensive to billions of Christians around the world. The apologies from Israeli officials are noted, but desecrating a statue of Jesus Christ requires swift and public disciplinary action. Israel needs to take steps so that egregious and offensive acts like this stop happening.” Linked to article, Outrage over Israeli soldier’s vandalism of Jesus statue in Lebanon (BBC 4/19/26)
  • Meeks (D-NY) 4/17/26: X-post – “Ranking Member @RepGregoryMeeks met with Ambassador Issa to discuss the ceasefire between Israel and Lebanon and the historic talks that occurred last week between the two nations. They reaffirmed the importance of ensuring the ceasefire holds and extends, which is imperative for the security and success of all in the region.“
  • Graham (R-SC) 4/17/26: X-post – “Respectfully and strongly disagree.” Linked to: US envoy says both sides of Israel-Lebanon ceasefire ‘equally untrustworthy’ (The New Region 4/17/26)

Targeting Free Speech/Right to Protest/Academia critical of Israel/Zionism; Weaponization of Claims of Antisemitism; NGO Sector

  • Omar (D-MN) 4/23/26: X-post – “Ahmed Shihab-Eldin is finally free. I called the Kuwaiti ambassador to advocate for his release. We must continue to protect freedom of speech—especially for journalists like Ahmed, brave enough to document what is actually happening in the Iran war.”
  • Pressley (D-MA) 4/17/26: Rep. Pressley Says Goodbye to Constituent Rümeysa Öztürk
  • McGovern (D-MA) 4/17/26: X-post – “Kuwait’s detention of U.S. citizen & journalist Ahmed Shihab-Eldin over social media posts is a serious violation of his right to freedom of expression. Vague claims of “national security” are not a valid reason to violate human rights. Release Ahmed. Journalism is not a crime!” Linked to: Kuwait Detained Journalist After Comments on Iran War Images, Watchdog Says (New York Times 4/15/26)

Other stuff

  • Levin (D-CA) 4/24/26: X-post – “This should be on the front page of every newspaper in America. A Syrian billionaire needed U.S. sanctions lifted so he could cash in on $12 billion in reconstruction contracts. In an attempt to influence American foreign policy, he proposed a Trump-branded golf course, cut Jared Kushner & Ivanka Trump into a multibillion-dollar real estate deal for a resort in Albania, and had someone physically deliver a stone engraved with the Trump family crest to a Republican Member of Congress with instructions to take it to the White House to get the President’s attention. Trump threw his weight behind repealing the sanctions. They were lifted. The contracts are moving, the Trump family’s deals are expanding, and not a single Washington Republican is willing to say a word about any of it. This is a corruption of everything the office of the presidency is supposed to stand for, and the American people deserve to know about it.“
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 4/23/26: X-post – “Hell no.” Responding to X-post reporting: “NEW: Trump administration is considering financial bailout for the United Arab Emirates over economic losses sustained from US war with Iran. -WSJ“
  • Cassidy (R-LA) 4/22/26: X-post – “NYC’s Health Department gets about $600 MILLION/year in federal taxpayer dollars. So why were these resources reportedly spent on promoting a radical anti-Israel agenda that alienates Jewish employees?   Last month, I asked @NYCMayor Mamdani for answers on this and on any DEI initiatives in the Department. CRICKETS!! If they want to use taxpayer money, they must weed out antisemitism.    I am giving them an additional 48 hours to respond. After that, I will explore my options as Committee Chairman to receive an answer.“
  • Scott (R-SC) 4/22/26: X-post – “.@CAIRNational is a designated terror organization in Florida for a reason. One of its founding board members was sentenced to 65 years in prison for supporting terrorist groups, and the FBI recently cut off contact with the organization over links to Hamas. Yesterday, they were on Capitol Hill pitching lawmakers on their agenda like any other nonprofit. Enough is enough. I have a bill to strip their tax exempt status. Congress should pass it IMMEDIATELY. America fights terrorists, we do not fund them.” Response from CAIR on X: “None of what you posted is true, @SenRickScott. Not a single word. What is true, however, is that you were forced to resign as CEO of a health insurance company that committed the largest Medicare fraud in history. Your company had to pay a $1.7 billion fine and you pleaded the 5th amendment 75 times during a civil lawsuit. After somehow avoiding prison, you then used the wealth you stole from the American people to buy your way into politics, where you have prioritized a foreign government over the American people ever since. You keep tweeting. We will keep standing up to corrupt politicians in the halls of Congress and defeating your antics in the courts of law, God willing.“
  • Wilson (R-SC) 4/21/26: X-post – “Grateful to be the first Member of Congress to receive Mr. Mohamad Kanatri, Acting Chargé d’Affaires a.i. of the Embassy of the Syrian Arab Republic to the United States of America. I presented his government official copies of the Caesar repeal. For the first time free Syria is represented in Washington, and President Trump’s vision of giving Syria a chance is being realized.
”

5. Selected Media

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – GENERAL

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – STILL Making Hasan Piker the Big Story [Note: Hasan Piker figures into other articles included in this Round-Up; this sub-section is limited to post explicitly focused on Hasan]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Kentucky

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics –  California

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Mississippi

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland

  • Greenbelt New Review 4/22/26: Four District 4 Candidates Address Democratic Club [“…All candidates present denied taking donations from AIPAC or any other large corporate donors. Hedgepeth and White both noted that while they won’t accept AIPAC money, Glenn Ivey does, saying AIPAC is his biggest funder.“]
  • Maryland Matters 4/22/26: With the legislative session past, all eyes turn to looming primaries [“One big question is whether AIPAC, the deep-pocketed pro-Israel group, begins investing in the primary on Boafo’s behalf. That could make a huge difference if the race remains close – even though AIPAC is less popular in Democratic circles these days than it was in the past two election cycles, when it spent $4 million on two separate congressional elections in Maryland.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Nebraska

  • Nebraska Examiner 4/22/26: Powell once again leads in fundraising for NE-02 Dems [“Cavanaugh drew the most support this quarter from political action committees, much of it from unions backing him. Powell drew her top PAC support this quarter from PACs that support Latino and Latina candidates and women. Rhoades didn’t list PAC support this quarter, but many of her individual donations were bundled by AIPAC, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. Many of Powell’s donations were bundled by EMILY’s List. Askins boosted her tally with a six-figure personal loan.”]

Other Stuff

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)

[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]

>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<<<

[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 (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.” 

 

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

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts Podcasts:

—————————-

1. Bills & Resolutions

Disapproving of Weapons Sales to Israel

S. J. Res. 32: Introduced 3/10/26 by Sanders (I-VT), Welch (D-VT), and Merkley (D-OR), “A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Israel of certain defense articles and services.” FAILED 4/15/26 by a vote of 40-59 (the vote was on a motion to discharge the bill from the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations – a procedural vote that in effect was a vote on the underlying resolution). Voting “no” were all Republicans, along with Coons (D-DE), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Fetterman (D-PA), Fetterman (D-PA), and Schumer (D-NY). 

S. J. Res. 138: Introduced 3/19/26 by Sanders (I-VT), Van Hollen (D-MD), Welch (D-VT), and Merkley (D-OR), “A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Israel of certain defense articles and services.” FAILED 4/15/26 by a vote of 36-63. Voting “no” were all Republicans, along with Blumenthal (D-CT), Coons (D-DE), Cortez Masto (D-NV), Fetterman (D-PA), Gillibrand (D-NY), Peters (D-MI), Reed (D-RI), Rosen (D-NV), Warner (D-VA), and Whitehouse (D-RI). 

Also see:

The Return of the Israel Anti-Boycott Act

(THE RETURN OF THE ISRAEL ANTI-BOYCOTT ACT) S. 4296 [bill text] Introduced 4/15/26 by Scott (R-FL) and 6 Republican cosponsors, the “IGO Anti Boycott Act of 2026,” aka, “A bill to amend the Anti-Boycott Act of 2018 to apply the provisions of that Act to international governmental organizations.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Also see: press release – Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bills to Defund UNRWA, Support Israel – excerpt: “…In the 1970s, Congress acted to stop the Arab League’s attempt to economically isolate Israel. They passed laws which made it clear to American companies that they would face financial consequences if they participated in this boycott. And it worked. Today however, the same campaign of economic pressure now works through international bodies—UN agencies and other IGOs that compile blacklists of Israeli companies and seek to delegitimize Israel economically. The principle is simple and vital: We in Congress can never let the whim of an international body override the security and prosperity of the American people.  America’s sovereignty means WE will decide who we support, whom we trade with, and whom we defend.”

REMINDER: This bill was last seen in 2025, in the form of  HR 867, introduced 1/31/25 by Lawler (R-NY) and currently having 19 cosponsors (15 Republicans and 5 Democrats). On 5/2/25, the GOP House leader published a list of bills to be considered by the House on 5/5/25 under suspension of the rules. That list included HR 867. The announcement sparked backlash on social media, including from some House Republicans and some major Republican influencers. Subsequently, on 5/4/25 the GOP House leader published a new notice listing bills to be considered 5/5/25 under suspension of the Rules – HR 867 was not on that new list. More details of that mini-drama – as reported in the 5/9/25 edition of the Round-Up – and about the bill itself, are below:

  • My viral 5/2/25 X-thread (posted minutes after House leadership sent out notice that the bill would be on Monday’s suspension calendar): “Love it or hate it – on Monday the House will vote on HR 1867 [yes, this is a typo – the correct bill number is HR 867, as reflected in the analysis and bill link included in the rest of the thread, and as reflected in the correction I posted moments after the thread went up, and then posted multiple times again over the weekend as the thread went viral], ‘The IGO Boycott Act’, the current iteration of the ‘Israel Anti-Boycott Act’ – to impose harsh penalties, incl fines/jail on Americans who, in line with their values/political views, boycott Israel or settlements. 1/ As covered in the 2/27/25 edition of the Round-Up: HR 1867, like its predecessors, seeks to amend/expand current US anti-boycott law. That law is based on the idea of preventing US citizens from being **compelled or coerced** into boycotting Israel… 2/…as a condition for doing business abroad under the Arab League Boycott of Israel (which included coercive secondary sanctions). 3/ this bill, like its predecessors, seeks to extend this law to ‘cover US citizens who boycott Israel &/or settlements NOT because they are being compelled/coerced, but because it reflects their own values/political views, including support for intl law… 4/ …with the hook being the EU’s policy urging companies to differentiate between Israel and settlements, and the UN’s database of companies working in settlements. As a reminder, the EU policy nor the UN database are entirely informational/advisory… 5/ …neither one includes any enforcement or accountability mechanism of any kind.’ [ie, they are entirely non-coercive, at most advisory measures] 6/ Yet under this bill, ‘anyone who violates or ‘abets’ what would be a ban on VOLUNTARY, VALUES-BASED decisions to boycott Israel or settlements, grounded in Americans’ personal & political views &/or informed by respect for intl law— could face massive CRIMINAL/CIVIL PENALTIES. 7/ What do I mean by ‘massive CRIMINAL/CIVIL PENALTIES’? I mean up to $1 MILLION in fines or up to 20 YEARS IN PRISON. Think I’m exaggerating? Read the legislation that it would amend.8/ The bill (on Monday’s suspension calendar) 9/ Deeper coverage in the 2/7/25 edition of the Round-Up: 10/ Announcement of Monday’s suspension calendar 11/ ACLU letter opposing this same legislation in the last Congress  12/ For further background/analysis on this legislation see this collection of resources: (link)“
  • Thread from DropSite 5/2/25 (linking to my thread); follow-up thread from DropSite 5/3/25
  • Members who came out in opposition to the IGO Boycott Act: Green (R-GA) 5/3/25: X-post – “I will be voting NO. It is my job to defend American’s rights to buy or boycott whomever they choose without the government harshly fining them or imprisoning them. But what I don’t understand is why we are voting on a bill on behalf of other countries and not the President’s executive orders that are FOR OUR COUNTRY???“; Massie (R-KY) 5/3/25: X-post – “I agree with @RepMTG. I’ll be voting No on this bill as well.“; Luna (R-FL) 5/4/25: X-post – “H.R. 867, up for a vote tomorrow, aims to curb antisemitism but threatens First Amendment rights. Americans have the right to boycott, and penalizing this risks free speech. I reject and vehemently condemn antisemitism but I cannot violate the first amendment.” Massie (R-KY) 5/4/25: X-post – “Apparently HR 867 has been pulled from the schedule for this week. Thank you for your vocal opposition on this platform. It was a ridiculous bill that our leadership should have never scheduled for a vote.” Responding to a comment that the GOP would now try to sneak the bill through some other way, Massie stated: “Correct. They buried the original smaller version of this bill inside the 2018 NDAA. Look for them to do something similar in the near future for this legislation to expand the 2018 version.” Luna (R-FL) 5/5/25: X-post – “H.R. 867, a blatant violation of our first amendment, has been pulled from the vote schedule. I’m grateful to everyone who stood with the few of us fighting it. Grifter X accounts claim that I sponsored the bill. That is a lie, and you can see online for yourself. Regardless: The bill HAS been pulled”; Davidson (R-OH) 5/4/25: X-post – “I oppose this foolish, unconstitutional bill, and will vote NO. Think of the logic: – Protest America – free speech – Protest Israel – jail & bankruptcy Insane.”
  • Members who came out in defense of the IGO Boycott Act: Lawler (R-NY) 5/5/25: X-post- “This bill amends existing law and focuses on institutional pressures, not personal choices, ensuring that Americans are not forced to participate in unsanctioned boycotts promoted by IGOs, like the UN. I look forward to leadership bringing this critical legislation to a vote.”
  • MAGA/right-wing forces weighing in against the IGO Boycott Act: Charlie Kirk 5/3/25: X-post – “Tomorrow the House will vote on HR 867, a bill that will criminalize private boycotts of Israel. Fines up to $1,000,000 and prison time up to 20 years. Bills like this only create more antisemitism, and play into growing narratives that Israel is running the US government. In America you are allowed to hold differing views. You are allowed to disagree and protest. We’ve allowed far too many people who hate America move here from abroad, but the right to speak freely is the birthright of all Americans. This bill should not pass. Any Republican that votes for this bill will expose themselves. We will be watching very closely.” Matt Gaetz 5/3/25: X-post – “Antisemitism is bad and should be categorically rejected. Not every idea cooked up to respond to Antisemitism is a good one. There’s a real danger in passing bills like this. Somewhere Democrats are writing a bill to imprison the rest of us for 20 years if we boycott countries who sign the Paris Climate Accords…or join the UN…or bribe the WTO/WHO. And they may get power again. Which is why we shouldn’t use ours to punish dissent or ‘thought crimes’ with prison. Antisemitism is a real problem. It deserves a response far more serious and thoughtful than this dangerous and unconstitutional Lawler virtue signal.”
  • Best Media Coverage: Should Sharing Information About Israeli Businesses Get You 20 Years in Prison? [“The IGO Anti-Boycott Act would dramatically expand U.S. anti-boycott laws. The House quietly postponed a vote after running into unexpected Republican opposition.”] (Reason 5/5/25)
  • Other Media: House Pulls Bill Prohibiting Anti-Israel Boycotts After Conservative Backlash (Daily Caller 5/7/25); MAGA Republicans Kill Pro-Israel Bill (Jewish Press 5/7/25); Why MAGA Republicans helped kill a bill that sought to punish critics of Israel (MSNBC 5/6/25); House leadership yanks Israel anti-boycott bill from consideration due to ‘issues’ (Washington Examiner 5/5/25);  AIPAC’s Anti-BDS Bill Is Derailed, at Least for Now (Sludge 5/5/25); House cancels vote on IGO Anti-Boycott Act following right-wing objections (Jewish Insider 5/5/25); House leadership nixes vote on Israel boycott bill (Jewish News Syndicate 5/5/25); MAGA Leaders Defend Americans’ Right to Boycott Israel (Newsweek 5/4/25); Rare Right-Wing Revolt Sinks Bill Punishing Boycotts of Israel With Prison (MintPress News 5/5/25); Marjorie Taylor Greene, Thomas Massie oppose bill to penalize some anti-Israel boycotts (KTUL 5/5/25)
  • NOTE: On 2/12/24, the ACLU sent a letter to House members urging them to vote against this bill in the previous congress (HR 3016), noting, among other things, “it unconstitutionally targets political boycotts for criminal penalties. Although the ACLU does not take a position on particular boycotts of foreign countries, we stand firmly against any infringement of fundamental First Amendment rights, including the right to boycott. If the bill were to pass and take effect, we would consider challenging it in court.“
  • For further background/analysis on this legislation see this collection of resources.

Targeting UNRWA & the UN

(TARGETING UNRWA & THE UN) S. 4295 [bill text]: Introduced 4/15/26 by Scott (R-FL) and 8 Republican cosponsors, the “Stop Support for UNRWA Act of 2026″  aka, “A bill to prohibit aid that would benefit Hamas, to place restrictions on funding for United Nations entities that are led by countries that support terrorism, and for other purposes.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

Also see: press release – Sen. Rick Scott Introduces Bills to Defund UNRWA, Support Israel – excerpt: “For decades, UNRWA has operated as a permanent refugee bureaucracy. But since the October 7 terrorist attacks, evidence has clearly shown that UNRWA employees actively supported Hamas, have promoted antisemitic and extremist content in schools, and have even participated in atrocities against Israeli civilians. This bill will make permanent what has rightly been U.S. policy since October 7: an end of all funding to UNRWA, as well as related entities related to it or any that may come after it. This bill will revoke the privileges and immunities that UNRWA officials currently hold under the International Organizations Immunities Act—so those who support terrorism can be held directly accountable in our courts rather than shielded by diplomatic status. More broadly, the bill ensures that U.S. taxpayers will never again be forced to sponsor U.N. bodies chaired by governments that the State Department itself identifies as repeatedly supporting terrorism. The American people should not have to hand over their hard-earned money to support organizations that funnel their resources to state sponsors of terror.”

War Powers Resolutions – House

(REMOVE US FORCES FROM HOSTILITIES WITH IRAN) H. Con. Res. 40: Introduced 6/23/25 by Meeks (D-NY), and currently having 90 cosponsors, “Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove United States Armed Forces from hostilities with Iran.” FAILED 4/16/26 by a party-line vote of 213-214, with 1 voting “present.” Three members broke with their parties: Massie (R-KY) voted “yes“; Davidson (R-OH) voted “present“; and Golden (D-ME) voted “no.” Also see:

(LEBANON WAR POWERS RESOLUTION) H. Con. Res. 84: Introduced 4/13/26 by Tlaib (D-MI), “Directing the President pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution to remove United States Armed Forces from Lebanon.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

Iran War Powers Resolutions – Senate

(REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 123: Introduced 3/10/26 by Duckworth (D-IL) and 5 Democratic cosponsors, “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. FAILED 4/15/26, by a vote of 47 – 52 (the vote was on a motion to discharge the bill from the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations – a procedural vote that in effect was a vote on the underlying resolution).  All Republicans other than Paul (R-KY) voted “no” and all Democrats and Independents other than Fetterman (D-PA) voted “yes.” Floor debate on the resolution is here.

Newly-introduced:

  • (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 161: Introduced 4/13/26 by Kelly (D-AZ), “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.” Also see Kelly press release.
  • (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 163: Introduced 4/13/26 by Merkley (D-OR), “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.” Also see Merkley press release.
  • (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 171: Introduced 4/13/26 by Kim (D-NJ), “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.“
  • (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 172: Introduced 4/13/26 by Warnock (D-GA), “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.” Also see Warnock X-post 4/14/26 – “I will be forcing a vote on my War Powers resolution to stop this illegal and unjust war in Iran. Something as serious as war deserves a debate and deserves a vote. The American people do not want this war, and I intend to hold this unhinged President accountable.”
  • (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 180:  Introduced 4/13/26 by Van Hollen (D-MD), “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.”Also see Van Hollen press release.
  • (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 181:  Introduced 4/13/26 by Gillibrand (D-NY), “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.” Also see Gillibrand press release.
  • (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 183: Introduced 4/13/26 by Booker (D-NJ), “A joint resolution to direct the removal of United States Armed Forces from hostilities within or against the Islamic Republic of Iran that have not been authorized by Congress.” Also see Booker press release.

Also see:

Other Stuff

(NO FUNDS FOR SHAM “BOARD OF PEACE”) S. 4278 [bill text]: Introduced 4/13/26 by Kelly (D-AZ), “A bill to prohibit funding for the Board of Peace that is not authorized by Congress, and for other purposes,” aka the “Prohibiting Expenditures for an Accountability-Circumventing Entity (PEACE) Act.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Also see: press release – Kelly Introduces Bill to Block Unauthorized Funding for Trump’s “Board of Peace” 

—————-

Media/posts/analysis related to other legislation:

2. Letters

3. Hearings & Markups

April 21, 2026: The Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe will hold a hearing, Iran’s Support for Russia and Lessons Learned from Ukraine. Scheduled witnesses are: Ilan Berman, senior vice president, American Foreign Policy Council; Behnam Ben Taleblu, senior director, Iran Program, Foundation for the Defense of Democracies; and Aaron Zelin, Gloria and Ken Levy Fellow, Washington Institute for Near East Policy.

April 16, 2026: The Senate Committee on the Budget held a hearing, “The President’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Proposal [hearing video].” The sole witness was Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget (statement). Also see: President’s Budget Request – U.S.-Israel Aspects of Note (A New Policy 4/3/26).

April 16, 2026: The House Armed Services Committee held a hearing, ISO Subcommittee Hearing: Defense Intelligence Enterprise – Challenges, Priorities, and Resourcing for Fiscal Year 2027 [hearing video]. Witnesses included Defense Intelligence Agency Director, Lt. Gen. James H. Adams III, USMC, whose statement included a section on the Middle East (pp. 23-25).

April 15, 2026: The House Budget Committee held a hearing, “The President’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Request [hearing video]” The sole witness will be Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Also see: President’s Budget Request – U.S.-Israel Aspects of Note (A New Policy 4/3/26). Also see Budget Committee press release – Top Moments from House Budget Committee’s Hearing on the President’s FY 2027 Budget Request

April 15, 2026: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing entitled, Reforming the UN: Assessing U.S. Efforts and Priorities [hearing video]. Witnesses were: US Representative to the UN Mike Waltz (statement); and Jeff Bartos, US Representative to the UN for UN Management and Reform. Predictably, issues related to Israel, alleged antisemitism, UNRWA, etc. featured in the hearing, most notably in remarks made by Scott (R-FL), who used the hearing as a springboard to announce the introduction of new legislation targeting UNRWA and the UN; and the introduction of the 2026 edition of the IGO Anti-Boycott bill, which is the current title of the Israel Anti-Boycott Act – both discussed in Section 1, above. See Scott’s press release for details and for a transcript of his statement during the hearing.

4. Selected Members on the Record

REMINDER: It is simply beyond the capacity of the Round-Up to track [let alone document] what every member of the House and Senate is saying about the US/Israel war with Iran. To see what a specific member has said, check their websites and social media accounts.

Israel/AIPAC & US politics/elex – general

  • Durbin (D-IL) 4/16/26: X-post – “Today, I met with Illinois members of the Joint Action Committee to discuss the dangerous rise of antisemitism, US-Israel relations, and gun violence in the United States. Hate in all its forms has no place in America, and I will continue to fight for the rule of law and democratic norms that shield us from such evils.” [the Joint Action Committee “is a national organization dedicated to helping elect federal candidates who support issues reflective of Jewish values, including strong US-Israel relations, combating antisemitism, reproductive rights, gun violence prevention, and separation of religion and state”] 
  • Gillen (D-NY) 4/16/26: X-post – “It was a privilege to meet and speak with a great group of Yeshiva University students in YUPAC visiting DC to advocate for strengthening the US-Israel relationship and countering antisemitism. I’m inspired to see these young leaders standing up for the Jewish community in NY-04 and across the country.“
  • Scott (R-FL) 4/16/26: X-post – “.@AIPAC needs to take notice and make sure to never help any of these Democrats in their races. Not a single dollar.” Responding to Hebrew-language X-post from Israeli journalist Barak Ravid, translated – “Unprecedented Low in Israel’s Standing in the US: 40 out of 47 Democratic Senators voted tonight against supplying bulldozers to the IDF | 36 out of 47 Democratic Senators voted against supplying bombs to the IDF | No Democratic Senator considering a presidential run voted this evening in favor of supplying weapons to Israel“
  • Pocan (D-WI) 4/13/26: X -post – “The Trump administration daily reports to Netanyahu on the Iranian war, but not Congress or the American people. Let that sink in.“
  • Fetterman (D-PA) 4/13/26: X-post – “The Left, 2026: [check mark] Hamas | [check mark + smiley face with hearts] Nazi tattoos | [big red X] Israel + Iron Dome”

Israel/West Bank/Gaza/Jerusalem

  • Foushee (D-NC) 4/17/26: X-post – “Recent changes to laws in Israel further emphasize the importance of ensuring U.S. taxpayer dollars do not further the well-documented mistreatment of Palestinian children and families living under Israeli military occupation. I am cosponsoring @BettyMcCollum04’s legislation to stop U.S. support of the seizure of Palestinian property, military detentions of Palestinian children, and further annexation of Palestinian land in violation of international law. We must reject any system or aggression in which Israel unilaterally exercises permanent rule over a Palestinian people denied self-determination and human rights.“
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 4/16/26: X-post – “Proud to join Doctors Against Genocide for Genocide Awareness Month to center our shared humanity across borders. We will continue to demand an end to the genocide and war crimes in Gaza, Lebanon, Iran, Sudan, and Congo. Our government must invest in life, and stop funding death.”
  • McGovern (D-MA) 4/16/26: X-post – “I believe the death penalty is wrong. But far-right politicians in Israel found a way to make it even more unjust and morally reprehensible: by passing a law that would apply it almost exclusively to Palestinians. This is abhorrent. Anyone involved in carrying out this directive should be sanctioned by the United States government. It is long past time to put our money where our mouth is and impose consequences for the Israeli government’s ongoing occupation of the Palestinian territories and two-tiered system of justice.“
  • Ramirez (D-IL) 4/15/26: X-post – “Americans are tired of their dollars being used in forever wars, while padding the pockets of warmongers. In fact, 60% of Americans want the U.S. to stop arming Israel, yet only 65 representatives have signed on to the Block the Bombs Act. On this Tax Day, let’s chose creation instead of war. Let’s pass Block the Bombs, let’s end forever wars, and let’s invest in our communities!“
  • Foushee (D-NC) 4/14/26: X-post – “This is heartless—more innocent Palestinians are being killed while conflicts continue throughout the region. America can’t keep supporting death and destruction at the hands of Israel in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran. We must stop arms sales to Israel and pass legislation to prevent our involvement.“
  • Khanna (D-CA) 4/14/26: X-post – “The US’s use of AI in war is deeply asymmetrical. The people who were killed in the genocide in Gaza, the starving people in Cuba, and the people who we’re killing in Iran don’t have access to that technology. It has taken away the moral deliberation over the dignity and worth of the people we’re killing.”

Lebanon

  • Slotkin (D-MI) 4/17/26: X-post – “Yesterday, I met with U.S. Ambassador to Lebanon Michel Issa, just a few hours after some of the first direct-contact between the Lebanese and Israeli governments helped move us to a temporary ceasefire between the two. I shared the continuing concerns of Michiganders with deep ties to Lebanon and Israel, and discussed how to turn this into a durable ceasefire that supports the security of both countries.“
  • Stutzman (R-IN) 4/17/26: X-post – “The world is witnessing HISTORY IN THE MAKING | The fact that President Trump facilitated the steps to pivot Lebanon and Israel’s war into a ceasefire is TRULY momentous. These peaceful negotiations sure wouldn’t have happened 5 years ago!”
  • McCormick (R-PA) 4/16/26: X-post – “This week, @POTUS and his leadership just opened the door to something monumental between Israel and Lebanon.   Still more work to do but for the first time in recent memory, the two countries have a golden opportunity to build a secure and prosperous future for their people. I hope they seize it.“
  • Rosen (D-NV) 4/16/26: X-post – “For years, Hezbollah, a dangerous Iranian terror proxy, has threatened Israel and Lebanon. I am hopeful by the news of a temporary ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon. I urge Israel and Lebanon to continue negotiations following the first direct talks between the two sides in 30 years earlier this week. A long-term ceasefire, coupled with serious commitments and steps from the Lebanese government to disarm Hezbollah, could lead to security and stability in both countries and the conditions for regional peace in the Middle East.“
  • Lankford (R-OK) 4/16/26: X-post – “The ceasefire announcement from @POTUS as a result of US-led mediation between Israel and Lebanon is a historic step forward toward peace. Lasting stability will require demilitarizing Hezbollah and holding them accountable so they can no longer threaten Israel or destabilize Lebanon. I’ve continued to engage with partners on the ground to protect civilians, support our allies, and advance long-term security in the region.”
  • Lankford (R-OK) 4/16/26: X-post – “Hosting a formal meeting between the leaders of Israel and Lebanon is a huge accomplishment for President Trump – this has the potential to be another major step toward a lasting peace in the Middle East.“
  • McCormick (R-PA) 4/15/26: X-post – “I am extremely heartened by yesterday’s historic meeting between the governments of Israel and Lebanon. I applaud the leaders of both nations for engaging in these talks with sincerity and good faith, and I thank @SecRubio for facilitating these negotiations and for his vision to liberate Lebanon from Hezbollah and secure lasting peace for the people of both countries.“
  • Meeks (D-NY) 4/15/26: X-post – “RM @RepGregoryMeeks: I welcome the initial progress made during yesterday’s Lebanon-Israel talks facilitated by the State Department. This is a constructive step forward that I hope leads to an urgent ceasefire, allows for displaced persons to return home, for Hezbollah disarmament to continue, and for much needed aid to those most impacted by the conflict.”
  • Smith (D-WA) 4/14/26: X-post – “I’ve heard from many constituents who are deeply concerned about the civilian casualties in Lebanon from Israel air strikes. The war in Lebanon must stop and Israel must work with the Lebanese government to strengthen institutions, support stability, and give people a real alternative to extremism. Constant war empowers Hezbollah while Lebanese families pay the price. We need a path that reduces violence and ensures a secure future for the region.“
  • Stansbury (D-NM) 4/14/26: X-post – “This illegal war must end. A ceasefire must include ALL parties. Over a million people have been displaced and thousands of innocent civilians have been killed in Lebanon and throughout the Middle East. Trump’s war is leading to devastation and death, and these atrocities must end. We will move a War Powers resolution this week.“
  • LaHood (R-IL) 4/14/26: X-post – “Hezbollah, an Iranian terror proxy, continues to wreak havoc in southern Lebanon, targeting Lebanese and Israeli civilians and U.S. military personnel in the region. I am confident that @SecRubio will lead productive discussions between the ambassadors of Lebanon and Israel today, marking the first step towards de-escalation and long-term peace and stability for both nations.”
  • Kaine (D-VA) 4/14/26: X-post – “I am horrified by the ongoing Israeli bombing campaign in Southern Lebanon, which has led to devastating civilian casualties. Lebanon must be included in any agreement to end the conflict in the region.“
  • Warner (D-VA) 4/14/26: X-post w/ video clip – “Israel’s bombardment of Lebanon must stop.”
  • Kaine (D-VA) 4/14/26: X-post – “I am horrified by the ongoing Israeli bombing campaign in Southern Lebanon, which has led to devastating civilian casualties. Lebanon must be included in any agreement to end the conflict in the region.”
  • Ansari (D-AZ) 4/11/26: X-post – “Even this Trump Administration can help the Iranian people by appropriating funds for direct-to-cell internet connectivity. I have a bill, the IRAN (Internet Reach and Access Now Act), that does that. Lebanon must also be included in the ceasefire. More than 1,800 have been killed since the war began. It’s unacceptable.“
  • Dexter (D-OR) 4/10/26: X-post – “The ceasefire agreement is at risk so long as Israel continues to unleash bombs on Lebanon—including reporting that Israel dropped 100 bombs in 10 minutes. We need peace in the region. Not more bloodshed.”
  • McCollum (D-MN) 4/10/26: X-post – “The Trump administration needs to work to ensure that Israel abides by the ceasefire. Israel must stop its attacks on Lebanon immediately.“
  • Merkley (D-OR) 4/10/26: X-post – “Israel’s attacks killed more than 200 civilians in Lebanon and are putting a fragile ceasefire at risk. If we want lasting peace, all parties need to abide by the ceasefire agreement, including Israel.“
  • Shaheen (D-NH) 4/9/26: X-post – “‘I am highly concerned by the scale of destruction in Lebanon and the devastating effects on the civilian population. I welcome Israel and Lebanon redoubling efforts to negotiate a sustainable path forward.’ – @SenatorShaheen“
  • Meeks (D-NY) 4/9/26: Meeks Statement on Continued Violence Against Civilians in Lebanon

Targeting Free Speech/Right to Protest/Academia critical of Israel/Zionism; Weaponization of Claims of Antisemitism; NGO Sector

  • Lee (D-PA) 4/14/26: X-post – “Salah Sarsour, a beloved community leader and Palestinian refugee in Milwaukee, was targeted for his activism against the genocide and illegally abducted by ICE. Salah is a legal permanent resident and should be home with his mother, wife, and six children. Free Salah Sarsour.“

Other stuff

  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 4/16/26: X-post – “Ahmed Shihab-Eldin, a US citizen & journalist, was arrested in Kuwait in March on vague charges meant to silence free speech. No reporter should be arrested for doing their job. Release Ahmed, NOW.“
  • Beyer (D-VA) 4/14/26: Egypt Human Rights Caucus Co-Chairs Call for Immediate Release of Ahmed Douma

5. Selected Media

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – GENERAL

Extra fun: Kalshi is running a betting pool on the performance of AIPAC-backed candidates for Congress, with people betting on how many of these candidates will lose their primaries.

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – STILL Making Hasan Piker the Big Story [also see related stories below, in the section on Michigan & Pennsylvania]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

  • Washington Post 4/13/26: Voters grill Republican lawmaker in crucial swing district on Iran war [“The conflict has animated voters in the suburban district of Republican Rep. Mike Lawler ahead of the midterm elections.”]
  • Brown Daily Herald 4/13/26: Congressional candidate Brad Lander argues for ‘good neighborism’ at Brown Democrats talk [“…When asked about AIPAC, Lander told The Herald that ‘AIPAC is not unique here. There’s crypto PACs and AI PACs and Wall Street PACs, and all kinds of dark money.’ He added that AIPAC is a large ‘political backer of unconditional U.S. support for Israel while (Benjamin) Netanyahu is lighting the Middle East on fire.’ AIPAC did not respond to a request for comment. At Thursday’s event, he said Israel had committed genocide in Gaza — ‘even though I still have hope for some vision of a Jewish and democratic Israel,’ he said — later telling The Herald that Israel’s actions ‘are catastrophically bad for Palestinians and Israelis and Americans and human beings on planet Earth.’“]
  • The Forward 4/10/26: Brad Lander joins call to end U.S. aid to Israel, in quest to replace Rep. Dan Goldman [“Following AOC’s lead, the Jewish New York Democrat says he now seeks to end Iron Dome defense funding, citing Israel’s war conduct”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Tennessee

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Minnesota

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Connecticut

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

Iran

Other Stuff

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

New episodes of FMEP’s Occupied Thoughts Podcasts:

Also featuring FMEP:

—————————-

1. Bills & Resolutions

(IRAN OIL EXPORTS) HR 8220: Introduced 4/9/26 by Latimar (D-NY), “To nullify Iran-related General License U, ‘Authorizing the Delivery and Sale of Crude Oil and Petroleum Products of Iranian Origin Loaded on Vessels as of March 20, 2026’, and for other purposes.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Committee on the Judiciary.

(DESIGNATE CAIR A GLOBAL TERRORIST) HR 8236 (bill text): Introduced 4/9/26 by Roy (R-TX) and 3 Republican cosponsors [Ogles (R-TN), Higgins (R-LA) and Norman (R-SC)], “To direct the Secretary of the Treasury to list the Council on American-Islamic Relations and its chapter affiliates as Specially Designated Global Terrorists, and for other purposes,” aka the “Designating Hamas Affiliates in America Act of 2026.”  Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Committee on Ways and Means. Also see: press release – Rep. Roy Introduces Bill to Designate CAIR as a Specially Designated Global Terrorist Organization; Congressman Chip Roy Introduces Bill to Designate CAIR as Terrorist Entity (Middle East Forum 4/9/26)

(BARRING PROTEST NEAR SYNAGOGUES & CHURCHES) HR 8239: Introduced 4/9/26 by Suozzi (D-NY) and Miller (R-OH), “To amend title 18, United States Code, to prohibit harassment of persons lawfully exercising or seeking to exercise the First Amendment right of religious freedom at a place of religious worship, within a distance of 100 feet or closer to such place of religious worship, and for other purposes.”  Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary.

(CONDEMNING REP. OGLES/ISLAMOPHOBIA) H. Res. 1159: Introduced 4/9/26 by Green (D-TX), “Condemning the Hateful and Islamophobic Comments of Representative Andy Ogles.” Referred to the House Committee on Ethics. Also see press release – Congressman Al Green Introduces a Resolution Condemning the Hateful and Islamophobic Post of Representative Andy Ogles

(CONGRATULATING IRAN RESCUE EFFORTS) H. Res. 1160: Introduced 4/9/26 by Mills (R-FL), “Praising the efforts of United States Combat Search and Rescue teams in the recovery of two United States Air Force Airmen who ejected over Iran.” Referred to the House Committee on Armed Services. (All Actions)

UPDATE — (TARGETING NON-PROFIT SECTOR) HR 8166: Introduced 3/30/26 by Self (R-TX), “To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to deny tax-exempt status to certain organizations receiving contributions or gifts from citizens or nationals of foreign adversaries,” aka the “Guarding U.S. Associations from Rogue Donations (GUARD) Act.” Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. Text of the bill is now online — key points:

  • Strip Tax-Exempt Status: The bill would remove tax exempt status from any (c)(3) organization that “receives any contribution or gift…from any individual who is a citizen or national of a foreign adversary shall not be exempt from taxation…” The removal of the tax exemption would apply to “any taxable year ending on or after the date of the receipt of such contribution or gift.”
  • Foreign Adversary designation: The bill defines “Foreign Adversary” to mean: China (incl Hong Kong & Macau Special Admin Regions), Cuba, Iran, DPRK, Russian Federation, and “such other foreign country as the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of State, determines is in the national security interest of the United States” — meaning the Admin can add countries essentially be simple declaration.
  • Foreign citizens: The bill applies to donations from “citizens” of foreign adversary nations (e.g., a person who holds a Chinese passport). As written, it applies to such citizens regardless of where they live (including those who live in the U.S.), and it applies regardless of dual nationality  — that is, the bill would apply in the case of donations from US citizens who also hold citizenship in a designated Foreign Adversary [indeed, in principle it would apply to any US citizen that a foreign adversary nation would consider a citizen based on that nation’s own nationality laws, irrespective of whether that US citizen had ever obtained a passport or in any other way affirmatively accepted/asserted citizenship].
  • Foreign nationals: The bill also applies to donations from “nationals” of foreign adversary nationls (i.e., anyone residing in a designated foreign adversary nation who is NOT a citizen of that nation). As written, this would include American citizens resident in foreign adversary nations; indeed, as written it would even include US citizens living in such countries as part of service to the US government – e.g., the military or the US foreign service.
  • No exceptions, no recourse: The bill does not provide for any exceptions to the revocation requirement, nor does it lay out any means to challenge the revocation of tax-exempt status.

—————–

Re: Democrats’ effort to to pass War Powers Resolution this week:

  • C-Span 4/9/26 X-post with video clip — “While Rep. Chris Smith (R-NJ) presides during House pro forma session, Rep. Glenn Ivey (D-MD) asks unanimous consent for the House to pass Iran war powers resolution. Smith does not recognize Ivey and gavels the House out.” Also see reports in Wall Street Journal, Reuters, Axios, the Guardian, NBC News
  • Jeffries (D-NY) 4/8/26 press release: – Dear Colleague on Permanently Ending Donald Trump’s Reckless War of Choice [“To the extent Republican leadership refuses to bring Congress back this week, House Democrats will demand passage of the War Powers Resolution introduced by Ranking Member Greg Meeks via unanimous consent at the next pro forma session on Thursday, April 9 at 11:30 a.m. sharp. Led by Rep. Glenn Ivey, all Members who are in Washington are invited to join the effort on the House Floor. Immediately following the pro forma session, House Democrats will speak directly to the American people from the Capitol grounds.”]. 

Media/posts/analysis related to other legislation:

  • Vasquez (D-NM) 4/9/26: Rep. Vasquez Backs Bill to Prevent President from Unilaterally Escalating Iran War with Nuclear Strike [re: HR 3564, The Nuclear First-Strike Security Act of 2025, introduced 5/21/25]
  • Fine (R-FL) 4/9/26: X-post: “Foreigners should not be able to serve in Congress. That’s why I’ve introduced the Disqualifying Dual Loyalty Act. If you’re a citizen of another country, you shouldn’t serve this one. Get out.” NOTE: The image accompanying the post includes a photo of Tlaib (D-MI) with a Palestinian flag; a photo of Omar (D-MN) with a Somali flag, and what I think is supposed to be a photo of Ansari (D-AZ) edited to add a chador (Iranian-style hijab with partial face covering), with an Iranian flag. Note that Tlaib was born in Detroit, Michigan; Ansari was born in Seattle, Washington; and Omar is a refugee from Somalia who became a U.S. citizen in 2000. Is it relevant that Omar is foreign-born? Well… Per the public list maintained by the Clerk of the House, there are **26 foreign-born Members of Congress**. Fine only mentions Omar — who happens to be the only Muslim on the list. Is it relevant that Tlaib, Ansari, & Omar are engaged/outspoken on issues, incl related to the countries in which they have heritage? Well… Many, many members do likewise, incl via the many House caucuses organized around national/ethnic identities. Is it relevant that if a critic of Israel posted the exact same post as Fine, but with pix of Jewish members of Congress who are ardent supporters of Israel, with Israeli flags on on their pix, there would be a massive outcry of ANTISEMITISM and demands for consequences? In sum: Fine singles out 2 US-born citizens & 1 26-yr naturalized citizens, all women, brown, 2 Muslim & 1 secular w/ heritage in a Muslim country, to accuse of dual loyalty & demand they GET OUT. And there’s no outcry.
  • Semaphor 4/8/26: Democrats to force Iran vote next week
  • Sanders (I-VT) 4/8/26: X-post – “No great surprise. Netanyahu talked Trump into the disastrous war in Iran. We cannot allow Israel to continue shaping U.S. military and foreign policy. Next week I will be offering a resolution to stop U.S. military aid to Israel.” Linked to New York Times 4/7/26 article: How Trump Took the U.S. to War With Iran documenting in detail Israel’s role in the decision
  • IMEU 4/8/26: Senate Must Block More Bombs to Israel & Senate Must Block Bulldozers to Israel
  • Axios 3/6/26: House Democrat moves to impeach Hegseth over Iran war

2. Letters

Also see: Crow (D-CA) 4/7/26: Crow, Jacobs, Ansari Blast Unacceptable Response from DoD on Civilian Harm

3. Hearings & Markups

April 16, 2026: The Senate Committee on the Budget will hold a hearing, “The President’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Proposal.” The witness will be Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Also see: President’s Budget Request – U.S.-Israel Aspects of Note (A New Policy 4/3/26)

April 15, 2026: The House Budget Committee will hold a hearing, “The President’s Fiscal Year 2027 Budget Request.” The witness will be Russell Vought, Director of the Office of Management and Budget. Also see: President’s Budget Request – U.S.-Israel Aspects of Note (A New Policy 4/3/26)

April 15, 2026: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee will hold a hearing entitled, Reforming the UN: Assessing U.S. Efforts and Priorities. Scheduled witnesses will be: US Representative to the UN Mike Waltz; and Jeff Bartos, US Representative to the UN for UN Management and Reform.

4. Selected Members on the Record

REMINDER: At some point last month X appears to have killed the feature that allowed me to (relatively) easily track what members of Congress are saying using keyword searches of X lists (after previously killing the functionality that permitted me to conduct this tracking via a script). AS A RESULT: if you want track what members of Congress are saying about Israel/Palestine/Iran/etc on X, you – like me – are now obliged to track 535 accounts individually. Which I don’t have the capacity to do. Meaning that this section of the Round-Up will henceforth be a lot thinner, comprised of press releases posted on members’ website and statements on the Congressional Record, as well as odds and ends of statements on X that I have come across. 

ALSO REMINDER: It is simply beyond the capacity of the Round-Up to track [let alone document] what every member of the House and Senate is saying about the US/Israel war with Iran – including a flood of comments this week linked to Trump’s threat to totally destroy Iran and the “ceasefire” that suspended that threat. To see what a specific member has said, check their websites and social media accounts. Also see this thread from DropSite’s Julian Andreone tracking members of Congress calling for invocation of the 25th Amendment in connection with Trump’s threat this week to destroy Iran.

Israel/AIPAC & US politics/elex – general

  • Garcia (D-IL) 4/10/26: X-post – “Congratulations again, Little Palestine! I was honored to recognize this incredible community on the House floor for Arab American Heritage Month and I’m grateful for all that Little Palestine brings to my district and to Chicago.”
  • Sanders (I-VT) 4/10/26: X-post – “The DNC just passed a resolution condemning dark money. That’s a start, but not enough. Billionaire-funded super PACs—AIPAC, AI, crypto & others—are spending hundreds of millions to defeat any candidate who crosses them. They should be banned from Democratic primaries. Period.“
  • Warren (D-MA) 4/9/26: X-post – “NEWS: The DNC passed a resolution to denounce dark money in Democratic primaries. It’s an important step in the fight to get big money out of politics. We’re already seen AIPAC, crypto and AI industries flood our elections with millions in obscure ads—and we must push back.”
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 4/9/26: X-post – “Shameful.” Responding to Politico X-post – “Democrats are, once again, punting on what to do about Israel. DNC members voted down a measure condemning AIPAC’s influence in primaries and deferred ones that would support conditioning military aid to Israel.“
  • Khanna (D-CA) 4/9/26: X-post w/ video clip – “Two 2028 candidates lobbied against this DNC resolution condemning AIPAC. It failed. Anyone who wants to lead this party must condemn and reject AIPAC money. They should also pledge not to have a Super PAC in Democratic primaries. I take no PAC money and have no Super PAC.” Linked to article: DNC Kills Resolution Condemning AIPAC Influence in Elections (The New Republic 4/9/26)
  • Khanna (D-CA) 4/8/26: X-post – “Let’s start with this pledge. The next Democratic President will never have the Israeli PM in the Situation Room. Trump having Netanyahu there before launching an immoral and illegal war is a betrayal of the American people.” Linked to New York Times 4/7/26 article: How Trump Took the U.S. to War With Iran documenting in detail Israel’s role in the decision

Israel/West Bank/Gaza/Jerusalem

  • Goldman (D-NY) 4/9/26: X-post – “Netanyahu will stop at nothing to ensure his political survival, including authorizing the largest-ever expansion of settlements during a regional war and explosion of settler violence. This is unacceptable. If Netanyahu is unwilling to undo this decision, Trump must force him.“

Lebanon

  • Foushee (D-NC) 4/9/26: X-post – “I am signing @RepRashida’s War Powers Resolution to stop all U.S. military involvement in Israel’s hostilities in Lebanon. The war in Lebanon has displaced nearly 1 million people and has claimed the lives of thousands. Our federal government must hold itself to higher humanitarian standards than participating in a war that is putting innocent people at risk.“
  • Garcia (D-IL) 4/9/26: X-post – “Israeli bombardment has killed hundreds, injured thousands, and displaced millions in Lebanon. Trump must use his leverage to end the attacks and ensure ceasefire talks move forward—and Congress should pass the Lebanon War Powers Resolution to prevent Trump from dragging us in.“
  • Ramirez (D-IL) 4/9/26: X-post – “We can’t bomb our way to peace. Israel’s attacks on Lebanon must stop.    Trump and Netanyahu must be held accountable. Congress must assert its authority, pass the Lebanon War Power Resolution that @RepRashida and I introduced, and BLOCK THE BOMBS!”
  • Meeks (D-NY) 4/9/26: “While I welcome the ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran, I am deeply concerned by the continued violence in Lebanon, where Israel’s attacks have resulted in more than 1,500 people killed, over 4,000 wounded, and over 1 million displaced. The continued violence risks undermining the fragile ceasefire between the U.S. and Iran. Strikes on civilian infrastructure, health workers, and UN peacekeepers must immediately cease, as should any Israeli incursions beyond the Blue Line. At the same time, Hezbollah’s attacks on Israel must cease. Lebanon’s efforts to assert full control over its territory are essential, and must accelerate the disarmament of Hezbollah for long-term stability. The United States must support deescalation on all sides and reinforce Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity. I stand by President Aoun, the Lebanese Armed Forces, and the Lebanese people toward a fully sovereign, independent, and secure Lebanon.“
  • Tlaib (D-MI) 4/9/26: X-post – “I didn’t wait for the genocidal regime of Israel to kill over 250 people in Lebanon yesterday to file resolutions to stop the U.S. funding of these war crimes. So for colleagues speaking up now, welcome, but also don’t just tweet, support the war powers resolution to save lives.“
  • Omar (D-MN) 4/9/26: X-post – “Israeli bombs that the United States paid for. It is unconscionable we continue to provide aid to Israel as they continue to murder civilians and violate international law in Lebanon, Gaza, and the West Bank. No more money to Israel’s genocidal apartheid regime.”
  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 4/9/26: X-post – “Yesterday, Israeli strikes across Lebanon killed 250+ people even as Pakistan said the ceasefire it brokered includes Lebanon. Netanyahu urged Trump to start this war, now Trump must demand he help end it. Who’s calling the shots here?”
  • Dingell (D-MI) 4/9/26: X-post – “My goal is to protect U.S. troops and invest our tax dollars here at home instead of on reckless forever wars. This ceasefire must become a permanent peace. That means including Lebanon. Netanyahu helped walk us into war, but he cannot keep us there.“
  • Warren (D-MA) 4/9/26: X-post – “The ceasefire agreement Donald Trump brokered to end his war with Iran should be reducing violence. Instead, Israel’s escalated bombing undermined peace and killed hundreds of innocent civilians in Lebanon. The U.S. needs to do everything we can to stop this civilian slaughter.“
  • McGovern (D-MA) 4/8/26: X-post – “Netanyahu’s ongoing bombardment of Lebanon, which has killed civilians for weeks, threatens to plunge the region into even further chaos & unravel the ceasefire. Trump needs to stand up to Netanyahu. He needs to save the deal he negotiated. He has leverage. He should use it!“
  • Pocan (D-WI) 4/8/26: X-post – “Benjamin Netanyahu needs to go before the international court for his crimes. He’s conducting a regional war and playing Donald Trump as his b**ch.” Responding to post ABC News post: “At least 254 people have been killed and another 1,165 have been injured in Israeli attacks across Lebanon on Wednesday, a Lebanese Civil Defense spokesperson confirmed to @ABC News.”
  • Beyer (D-VA) 4/8/26: X-post – “The U.S. must immediately make clear to Israel that the ceasefire agreement is not and cannot be functional without a ceasefire in Lebanon. The American people want this war to end and bombing downtown Beirut is not a path to peace.“
  • Slotkin (D-MI) 4/8/26: X-post – “There are tens of thousands of Michiganders with deep ties to Lebanon— family, friends, and ancestral homes. Today, many anxiously checked in on loved ones amid significant Israeli airstrikes and civilian casualties. My heart goes out to these families, along with so many others from the greater Detroit area who have been living in fear for loved ones in the greater Middle East. For a ceasefire deal to be viable, it must cover the full scope of this regional conflict, including Lebanon. The U.S. negotiators should help prevent further loss of civilian life by sitting down with all parties and being transparent about the deal on the table and how to bring the war to a reasonable end.“ [NOTE: Slotkin manages here to use a whole lot of words not one of which is “Israel” or “Netanyahu”]
  • Jacobs (D-CA) 4/8/26: X-post – “Israel killed at least 254 people and wounded over 1,000 in just 10 minutes in Lebanon today, making it the deadliest day of the war. Trump needs to tell Netanyahu to include Lebanon in the ceasefire, and both leaders need to permanently end this war.“
  • Garcia (D-CA) 4/8/26: X-post – “The U.S. must ensure that any ceasefire agreement includes Lebanon. Netanyahu is brutally bombing Beirut, killing civilians, and destroying critical infrastructure. This regional war must end now.“
  • Murphy (D-CT) 4/8/26: X-post – “Israel must stop these attacks. No matter how incompetently negotiated this ceasefire was, we should all want it hold. But that means all parties to this regional war – the U.S., Iran, Israel, and Iran’s proxies – must stand down.” Responding to post w/ video clip from Al Monitor’s Joyce Karam – “Horrifying scenes from Beirut #Lebanon today. Nearly 100 Israeli airstrikes in less than 10 minutes, in broad daylight, with rush hour traffic heard in background. At least 89 killed…“
  • Sanders (I-VT) 4/6/26: X-post – “While the world focuses on the destruction in Iran, we must not ignore what Israel is doing in Lebanon. 1,461 have been killed. 4,430 have been injured. 1.2 million have been displaced. Israel now occupies 14% of Lebanon. Enough is enough. No more US military aid to Israel.”
  • Graham (R-SC) 4/3/26: X-post – “To say that I have been disappointed in the Lebanese Armed Forces’ leadership under General Haykal and their willingness to take on Hezbollah is an understatement. Now, the LAF is openly talking about abandoning Christian villages in the South, subjecting them to Hezbollah attacks and trying to blame Israel. To the Lebanese government, this is a very dangerous decision and you will be held accountable for the consequences of this decision if Christian villages are attacked by Hezbollah. The LAF under the leadership of General Haykal has been a tremendous failure when it comes to fighting Hezbollah.”

Targeting Free Speech/Right to Protest/Academia critical of Israel/Zionism; Weaponization of Claims of Antisemitism; NGO Sector

  • Tlaib (D-MI) 4/9/26: X-post – “Salah Sarsour, a respected Milwaukee leader, is a legal permanent resident who has lived in our country for over 32 years. He was targeted by ICE for speaking out against the Israeli government’s genocide in Gaza. He should be released immediately.”
  • Pocan (D-WI) 4/6/26: press release – “Over the past year, ICE has waged a campaign of fear and terror in this country. Just last week, they took Salah Sarsour for apparently no reason other than his speaking out against Israel’s unjust war in Gaza and fighting for Palestinian rights. But a week later, we still don’t have any answers from ICE as to why. He’s been a fixture in his community for years and a leader in Milwaukee. It’s long past time for ICE to release him and stop this unjust crusade.“

5. Selected Media

Israel/AIPAC & the DNC

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – GENERAL

Israel/AIPAC (and Iran) in US elex & politics – STILL Making Hasan Piker the Big Story [also see related stories below, in the section on Michigan & Pennsylvania]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Nebraska

  • KETV 4/3/26: Republican-backed ad ties Democrat to Trump before party’s House race primary [Melanie Williams: “‘Corporate interests and dark money, including AIPAC, are attempting to buy elections all across this country. AIPAC is also using ‘shell PACs’ to support candidates, like Crystal Rhoades, because of the very unpopular influence it is wielding on behalf of Israel, a foreign interest responsible for an ongoing genocide in Gaza and these wars of choice already claiming thousands of lives, including our own sons and daughters, as well as costing us up to $2 Billion a day of taxpayer money we need here at home). This is why we must overturn Citizens United…My campaign is yet another threat, as I call out anyone who is accepting AIPAC money and denying a genocide is taking place, even as the UN has raised the level of charge against Israel to Crimes Against Humanity…”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – South Carolina

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Illinois

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – California

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Colorado

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Ohio

  • Columbus Dispatch 4/7/26: Two Democrats running in Ohio 3rd congressional district primary on May 5 [Joe Gerard – “Why are you the best candidate? ‘The American decline has gone on for long enough. For 13 years, our district’s representative has…accepted hundreds of thousands from AIPAC and weapons manufacturers; then argued our financial hardship is a result of our own poor ‘financial literacy’ while voting to send $50 billion in American tax dollars to Israel…'”]

Iran

Other Stuff