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

Of special note:

• IMEU 4/28/26: US and International Law Require Ending All Weapons to Israel
• AIPAC 4/28/26: Memo – U.S. Security Assistance to Israel: The 10-Year MOU [“Congress must fulfill America’s commitment by providing full security assistance and missile defense funding to Israel for the remainder of the MOU.”]

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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the bill’s Middle East-related provisions; one Israel/Palestine-related amendment to the bill was debated and then withdrawn; another was debated and defeated.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:

• Press releases: Gottheimer (D-NJ) 4/29/26 — Reps. Gottheimer and Lawler Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Antisemitic Rhetoric from Prominent Online Personalities; Lawler (R-NY) 4/29/26 — Lawler Condemns Antisemitic Rhetoric From Candace Owens and Hasan Piker with New Resolution
• Media coverage: Gottheimer, Lawler lead bipartisan House resolution condemning Hasan Piker, Candace Owens (Jewish Insider 4/29/26); Bipartisan House resolution condemns Jew-hatred rhetoric by online influencers (Jewish News Syndicate 4/29/26); House to consider bipartisan resolution condemning Hasan Piker, Candace Owens for antisemitism [“Piker called the resolution a ‘cynical ploy to satisfy donors’ by its sponsors“] (The Forward 4/29/26); House Bill Calls Out Hasan Piker, Candace Owens for Fueling Hatred of Jews (New York Sun 4/30/26); US Lawmakers Introduce Bipartisan Resolution Condemning Antisemitic Rhetoric by Candace Owens, Hasan Piker (Algemeiner 4/30/26)

(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:

• H. Con. Res. 75: Introduced 3/4/26 by Gottheimer (D-NJ) and 9 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.” On 4/27/26 Rep. Self (R-TX) asked unanimous consent “That, it be in order at any time to consider H. Con. Res. 75 in the House if called up by the chair of the Committee on Foreign Affairs or his designee“
• S. J. Res. 184: Introduced 4/16/26 by Schiff (D-CA) and having 10 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.” Defeated in the Senate 4/30/26 by a vote of 50-47. All Democrats (and Independents) voted YES, except for Fetterman (D-PA); all Republicans voted NO except for Paul (R-KY) and Collins (R-ME). Three senators did not vote: Murray (D-WA), Moran (R-KS), and Tuberville (R-AL). Also see: Schiff press release 4/30/26 – At 60-Day Mark of Iran War, Senate Republicans Block Attempt by Sen. Schiff, Leader Schumer to End Trump’s Illegal Iran War; Senate rejects Democratic effort to halt war in Iran — again [“The measure garnered 47 votes in the Senate, with GOP Sen. Susan Collins joining with Democrats for the first time“] (Jewish Insider 4/30/26); Schiff tests GOP ahead of Iran war’s 60th day (Semaphor 4/30/26); Collins breaks with GOP leaders on Iran war powers resolution (The Hill 4/30/26)
• H. Con. Res. 91:  Introduced 4/27/26 by Waters (D-OR)
• H. Con. Res. 92: Introduced 4/28/26 by Garamendi (D-CA)
• H. Con. Res. 93: Introduced 4/28/26 by Moulton (D-MA) and 8 cosponsors
• H. Con. Res. 94: Introduced 4/29/26 by Garcia (D-IL)
• H. Con. Res. 95: Introduced 4/30/26 by Balint (D-VT)
• S. J. Res. 185: Introduced 4/27/26 by Kaine (D-VA) and 5 cosponsors
• S. J. Res. 191: Introduced 4/30/26 by Coons (D-DE) and 6 cosponsors

(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:

• NBC News 4/30/26: House Speaker Mike Johnson says the U.S. is ‘not at war’ with Iran as White House approaches 60-day deadline
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/24/26: New York rep introduces nationwide bill to protect houses of worship from protest [see 4/10/26 edition of the Round-Up for details of bill].
• ADL press release 4/24/26: ADL Welcomes Introduction of Federal Buffer Zone Legislation to Protect Safe Access to Synagogues and Houses of Worship [see 4/10/26 edition of the Round-Up for details of bill].

2. Letters

• (INVESTIGATING TARGETING OF SPLC) 5/1/26: Ranking Members Raskin, Scanlon Launch Inquiry into Trump DOJ’s Abusive and Baseless Prosecution of Southern Poverty Law Center [letter to ADAG Aakash Singh; letter to Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Alabama Kevin Davidson]
• (HOLD BRIEFING ON IRAN WAR) 4/29/26: Meeks, HFAC Democrats Call on Rubio and Mast for a Briefing on Iran Negotiations [letter to Rubio; letter to Mast]
• (CONCERN ABOUT ISRAEL & STOLEN UKRANIAN WHEAT) 4/29/26: On 4/29/26 Rep. Wilson (R-SC) posted on X: “As co-chair of the House Republican Israel Caucus, I am grateful to bring attention to war criminal Putin’s support for the Iranian regime’s Death to America, Death to Israel agenda. Blood-soaked grain, stolen from temporarily occupied areas of Ukraine, must be rejected.” His post was accompanied by a pic of his 4/29/26 letter to Israeli prime minister Netanyahu.
• (CUT OFF $$$ TO CAIR) 4/27/26: Rep. Roy Asks Health and Human Services to Suspend Funding for CAIR [letter text]. Also see: Republican lawmakers urge Trump administration to ban CAIR from receiving grants (Fox News 4/28/26)
• (INVESTIGATE HEGSETH) 4/26/26: Blumenthal & Colleagues Investigate Hegseth’s Failure to Protect Troops in Middle East After Fatal Attack [letter text]
• (END SUPER PACS IN US PRIMARIES) 4/26/26: Common Dreams 4/27/26 – Bernie Sanders Leads Senators in Demand to End Super PACs in Democratic Primaries [letter text]. Also see: Bernie Sanders Presses Democrats to Swear Off Super PACs in Primaries (New York Times 4/27/26)
• (INVESTIGATE KILLING OF AMCIT BY ISRAELI SETTLERS) 4/23/26: Congressman Chuy García Leads 23 Colleagues in Demanding Investigation into the Killing of American Citizen Khamis Ayyad (press release dated 4/24/26) [letter text]

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:

• Oversight and Intelligence Subcommittee Chairman Mills Delivers Opening Remarks at Subcommittee Hearing on U.S. Accountability at the United Nations
• News from UN reads like satire, House foreign affairs panel chair says (Jewish News Syndicate 4/30/26)

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)

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

• Times of Israel (blogs) 5/1/26: On AIPAC, Lobbying, and Double Standards [“
• The Bulwark (Dan Shapiro) 5/1/26: How Democrats Can Have a Better Conversation About Israel – It starts with asking better questions. [“
• Politico 4/30/26: Israel’s center wants Democrats back. It may not have the cards. [“The parties that once anchored Israel’s ties to Democrats have collapsed electorally — and even a post-Netanyahu government may struggle to win back a Democratic Party that’s already moved on.“]
• ABC News 4/29/26: Support from pro-Israel group AIPAC becomes a dividing line in Democratic races
• New York Times 4/29/26: ‘Excruciating and Agonizing’: A New Reality for Jewish Democrats [“As elements of the American left and right have grown increasingly critical of the Israeli government, Jewish politicians say they have been accused by some voters of being insufficiently supportive of Israel, while others say they’re insufficiently critical. They have been accused of having dual loyalties that pit their American identity against their support for Israel.“]
• The Dispatch 4/29/26: As Democratic Support for Israel Erodes, Blame Falls on Netanyahu [“Lawmakers insist they support the Jewish state and value its relationship with the U.S.“]
• Mosaic 4/29/26: Mainstream Democrats’ Faustian Bargain with Anti-Zionism
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/29/26: Who’s to blame for declining American support for Israel? [“The growing distaste for the Jewish state isn’t the fault of Netanyahu or Israeli behavior. It’s driven by forces seeking the destruction of the West and beyond the control of Jerusalem.”]
• Jewish Insider 4/28/26: From JI’s Daily Kick-Off – “Adam Safran, who served as legislative director for former Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), has joined AIPAC as director for policy and government affairs…“
• Politico 4/28/26: How Bernie Sanders convinced Democrats to oppose arming Israel [“The Vermont independent’s long-running campaign to block arms sales is demonstrating a sea change in the Senate Democratic Caucus.”]
• Newsweek 4/26/26: The DNC Didn’t Ban AIPAC, But Warning Signs Remain [“Candidates for public office must reject measures that single out pro-Israel individuals and groups. Such efforts do not strengthen our democracy—they erode it, especially when they serve to isolate, marginalize and exclude a segment of the American public: American Jews.“]
• Times of Israel (Blogs) 4/25/26: US politics – not Netanyahu – broke bipartisan support for Israel
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/25/26: It’s Zohran Mamdani’s New York now, not Eliot Engel’s [“The late congressman demonstrated how to be a passionate Zionist and an ardent liberal Democrat—something that is no longer possible.“]
• The Lever 4/24/26: The New Democratic Machine — And The Billionaires Behind It

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!]

• Commentary [“editor’s commentary”] 5/1/26: Let Me Explain What an Enemy Is
• New York Daily News 5/1/26: Piker’s perfidy has no place in our party
• Canary 4/30/26: Democrats prioritise condemning Hasan Piker over opposing Iran war
• Jacobin 4/30/26: Let’s Compare Hasan Piker’s Comments to Elite Centrists’
• The Dispatch 4/29/26: Hasan Piker and the Limits of the Big Tent [“The Democratic Party must avoid the temptation to fight extremism with extremism.”]
• Washington Examiner 4/28/26: Why are Democrats palling around with anti-American Hasan Piker?
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 4/27/26: Hasan Piker favors Hamas, is pushing Dems to be anti-Israel — and wants Jews not to worry about him [“An interview with the influencer gaining ground with liberals and alarming Jewish leaders.“]
• American Jewish Committee 4/27/26: Hasan Piker – Twitch Streamer Who Spreads Antisemitism to Millions
• The Forward 4/25/26: American Jews have a Hasan Piker problem. Solving it is going to hurt [“Piker’s popularity is a clear sign that we must adjust our tactics for fighting antisemitism — not double down on condemnation“]
• Vox 4/24/26: The real problem with Hasan Piker – Spoiler: It’s not about Israel.
• Peter Beinart’s Substack 4/24/26: How Hasan Piker Sees the World — The Twitch streamer and rising progressive commentator joins me to hash out his beliefs

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

• Jewish Journal 4/30/26: When Protecting Jewish Students Becomes a Litmus Test, Voters Must Answer
• Fox News 4/28/26: Dem lawmaker hosts Hamas-linked org, draws swift backlash online

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

• Jewish News Syndicate 4/28/26: Veteran pro-Israel Democrats fear losing seats to Republicans in Florida redistricting [“State gerrymandering efforts are a key battleground for control of Congress.”]
• Jewish Insider 4/28/26: DeSantis’ congressional redistricting plan alarms pro-Israel Democrats [“The plan proposed by the Florida governor eliminates seats held by four pro-Israel House Democrats, including two Jewish members“]

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

• The Algemeiner 4/30/26: Janet Mills Drops Out of Maine Senate Democratic Primary, Clearing Path for Anti-Israel Candidate Graham Platner
• The Forward 4/30/26: Analysis: As Democrats unite behind Platner, Schumer’s future as leader faces tests [“As insurgent candidates rise, the Democrats must confront new challenges over leadership and Jewish voter support”]
• Jewish Insider 4/30/26: Janet Mills suspends Maine Senate campaign, paving way for Graham Platner
• Jewish Insider 4/30/26: Jewish Democratic Council of America not ready to endorse Graham Platner, says CEO
• Drop Site News 4/28/26: Billionaire Bankrolling Anti-Platner PAC Gutted Maine Mill Towns [“One benefactor does have a Maine connection—though it’s a sordid one. That donor is Apollo Global Management’s billionaire CEO and founder Marc Rowan, a giant in the world of private equity who has faced scrutiny for his links to sex trafficker Jeffrey Epstein. Rowan contributed $50,000 so far of the $2 million already dedicated to the anti-Platner campaign, and has been a major backer of AIPAC in recent years.”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Massachusetts

• The Williams Record 4/29/26: Senate candidate Rep. Seth Moulton visits College, addresses students

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

• The Algemeiner 4/30/26: Does Israel Hater Hasan Piker Have More Chutzpah Than American Jews?
• Real News Network 4/30/26: The Atlantic’s Hasan Piker meltdown perfectly distills elite media’s warped priorities [“Zero stories in the Atlantic about Hind Rajab, zero stories about Israel killing medical workers or journalists—but five articles in two weeks on a Twitch streamer.”]
• Fox News 4/29/26: Far-left streamer Hasan Piker defends himself from antisemitism accusations in interview with Jewish outlet
• Detroit Jewish News 4/28/26: Tensions Rise at Michigan Democratic Convention
• Jewish Insider 4/28/26: New Jersey’s 12th District Democratic primary poses tough choices for Jewish voters [“Adam Hamawy is running as an anti-Israel activist in a crowded primary to succeed Rep. Bonnie Watson Coleman, and is backed by well-financed outside groups“]
• The Left Hook 4/26/26: Why is The Establishment So Afraid of Abdul El-Sayed?
• Detroit Free Press 4/25/26: Democrats talk AIPAC, faith, electability in first U.S. Senate debate

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Nebraska

• Punchbowl News 4/28/26: Israel is latest flashpoint in heated Nebraska primary

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

• American Prospect 4/30/26: Pro-Palestine Super PAC Spending $2 Million to Back Doctor in NJ-12 [“American Priorities is throwing its war chest behind Dr. Adam Hamawy, a combat surgeon who worked in a Gaza hospital while Israel’s genocide raged outside.“]
• Jersey City Times 4/27/26: Menendez Leverages Supporters of Father, Israel
• Washington Free Beacon 4/27/26: ‘Definitely No Tunnels’: Dem Congressional Candidate Dismissed Reports of Hamas Presence at Gazan Hospital Where He Worked—and Where Hamas Boss Mohammed Sinwar Was Later Killed [“Adam Hamawy, a plastic surgeon, is now running to represent New Jersey’s 12th District with Ilhan Omar’s endorsement“]
• Insider New Jersey 4/26/26: CD-7 Democrats Look for Votes – and for Kean [re IHRA Definition & AIPAC]
• The Left Hook 4/24/26: The Doctor Who Saved Sen. Tammy Duckworth Is Running For Congress: Meet Dr. Hamawy [“…despite all of his accomplishments and amazing life story, Dr. Adam Hamawy is a Muslim Arab American who is against illegal wars, genocide, AIPAC, and billionaires. As such, he’s about to experience the usual hazing that accompanies any such individuals who want to shake up the system. One of his Democratic opponents, Sue Altman, has already accused him of “cheerleading and wishing” for dead Israeli kids because of his call for America to stop funding Israel’s occupation and genocidal regime. It’s about to get uglier…“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

• New York Jewish Week 5/1/26: These progressives lost their races. Now they’re backing a new pro-Palestinian contender for Congress in NY.
• Jewish Currents 4/30/26: In New York, a Rift in Jewish Politics [“In two of the most Jewish Congressional districts, the debate over Israel is diverging“]
• Jewish Insider 4/28/26: Brad Lander stays mum on Mamdani buffer bill veto

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia Inquirer 4/30/26: Leftist streamer Hasan Piker gives Chris Rabb a boost during West Philadelphia campaign swing
• NBC Philadelphia 4/30/26: Rep. Chris Rabb attends rally with left-wing commentator Hasan Piker in Philly
• Mondoweiss 4/29/26: Palestine emerges as central issue in a key Pennsylvania Democratic primary
• Philadelphia Tribune 4/28/26: Congress hopefuls must renounce dark money

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Tennessee

• The Forward 4/30/26: As Supreme Court dilutes Voting Rights Act, Tennessee’s first Jewish congressman could lose his seat

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

• Jewish Insider 4/24/26: Virginia Del. Sam Rasoul, who faced backlash over anti-Israel rhetoric, won’t run for Congress

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – West Virginia

• Charleston Gazette-Mail 4/28/26: Capito builds huge fundraising advantage with pro-Israel help amid genocide findings

Other Stuff

• Jewish Insider 4/30/26: GOP senators express uncertainty about authorizing extension of Iran war [“Under the War Powers Resolution, a president cannot sustain military operations for more than 60 days without congressional approval or requesting a 30-day extension”]
• Jewish Insider 4/30/26: Lawler: Congress expected to push Trump to fill Abraham Accords envoy position [“Dozens of GOP lawmakers sent a letter last year urging the president to fill the position created in 2023“]
• Zeteo 4/28/26: 5 Laws and Standards That Require the US Cut Off Weapons to Israel [“A new memo circulating on Capitol Hill details why the US is obligated to cut weapons to Israel – even if Israel wants to buy them with its own money.“]
• Jewish Insider 4/28/26: U.S. lawmakers voice caution on Pakistan’s new middleman role
• Responsible Statecraft 4/17/26: These 100 former US lawmakers have become foreign lobbyists

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:

• 4/23/26: The Roots of Israel’s Aggression Against Lebanon, ft. FMEP fellow Peter Beinart in conversation with Bard College Professor Ziad Abu-Rish about the roots of Israel’s aggression against Lebanon.
• 4/20/26: Europe Reckons with the “Israel Impunity Tax” – ft. FMEP President Lara Friedman in conversation with political analyst/commentator Daniel Levy, President of the U.S./Middle East Project (USMEP)

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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:

• S. J. Res.114: Introduced 3/5/36 by Baldwin (D-WI) 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.” FAILED 4/22/26 [on a procedural vote to discharge it from committee, which in this case is a stand-in for a vote on the underlying bill] by a vote of 46-51, with all Democrats except for Fetterman (D-PA) voting YES, and all Republicans except for Massie (R-KY) voting NO. Also see: WATCH: Senate Blocks Fifth Attempt by Sen. Schiff, Colleagues to End Trump’s Illegal War in Iran (Schiff, D-CA, 4/22/26); Baldwin Will Force a Vote on Her War Powers Resolution to End Trump’s Illegal War in Iran (Baldwin, D-WI, 4/20/26); Senate rejects Iran war powers resolution for the fifth time (Jewish Insider 4/22/26)
• H. Con. Res. 86: Introduced 4/20/26 by Meeks (D-NY) 
• H. Con. Res. 87: Introduced 4/21/26 by Khanna (D-CA) 
• H. Con. Res. 88: Introduced 4/22/26 by Huffman (D-CA)
• H. Con. Res. 89: Introduced 4/23/26 by Jayapal (D-WA)

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:

• Quigley (D-IL) 4/22/26: Quigley Statement on U.S.-Israel Relations [announcing co-sponsorship of “Block the Bombs” [also see his X-post]

2. Letters

• [CONCERN FOR IRANIANS IN THE US] 4/23/26: Senator Markey, Rep. Ansari Demand Trump Admin. Institute Protections for Iranian Nationals Residing in the United States [letter text]
• [INVESTIGATE FAILURES THAT LED TO DEATHS OF SERVICEMEMBERS IN KUWAIT] 4/23/26: Following Deadly Attack on U.S. Base in Kuwait that Killed 6 Servicemembers, Congressman Pat Ryan and House Democratic Veterans Demand Secretary Hegseth Investigate Force Protect Failures [letter text]
• [TARGETING ISSUES RELATED TO ONLINE BETTING ON IRAN WAR] 4/21/26: Blumenthal Calls Out Prediction Markets’ Failure to Address Disputed & Unclear Bets [letter text] [“As prediction markets have grown in the volume and types of wagers, users have increasingly found themselves in situations where the outcome of the bet is disputed, with potentially hundreds of millions of dollars on the line. For example, Polymarket and Kalshi have hosted bets over military actions that have ultimately hinged on what counts as an ‘invasion’ or ‘control’ of a country. Kalshi faced pressure from its users after bets over the killing of Iran’s Supreme Leader would not resolve to ‘yes’ based on its terms of service.“]
• [CONCERN FOR CIVILIAN CASUALTIES OF US MILITARY OPS] 4/20/26: Ansari Demands Answers from Trump Admin for Civilian Harm in Iran Military Operations [letter text]
• [INVESTIGATE APPARENT INSIDER TRADING ON IRAN WAR] 4/20/26: Rep. Ritchie Torres Calls on CFTC to Investigate $760 Million Oil Futures Trade Placed Minutes Before Iran’s Strait of Hormuz Announcement [letter embedded in press release]
• [INVESTIGATE HEGSETH APPARENT INSIDER TRADING ON IRAN WAR] 4/20/26: Warren Presses SEC Chair Atkins to Investigate Suspicious Activity Involving Defense Secretary Hegseth Ahead of U.S.-Israel Iran Strikes [letter text]
• [HEGSETH MUST ANSWER FOR IRAN WAR ACTIONS] 4/19/26: Warren, Van Hollen Open New Investigation into Hegseth’s Role in Dismantling Military’s Civilian Harm Prevention Guard Rails [letter text]. Also see: Democratic Senators Fault Hegseth’s Leadership on Iran [“In a letter, the 11 senators questioned the defense secretary’s decision to gut programs intended to protect civilians and said his orders endangered U.S. troops.“] (New York Times 4/20/26)
• [COSTS OF IRAN WAR] 4/17/26: Ranking Member Markey Demands Transparency from Trump Administration on Impact of Trump’s Illegal War on Iran [letter text]
• [INVESTIGATING KUSHNER] 4/16/26: Ranking Member Raskin Opens Sweeping Investigation into “U.S. Special Envoy for Peace” Jared Kushner’s Foreign Entanglements and Staggering Conflicts of Interest [letter text]

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:

• Republicans: Diaz-Balart [R-FL] Remarks at FY27 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Bill Subcommittee Markup; Díaz-Balart’s FY 2027 NSRP Bill Builds on Historic Cuts While Prioritizing National Security [with video]; Díaz-Balart, Cole [R-OK] at FY27 National Security, Department of State Subcommittee Markup; Cole Remarks at FY27 National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Bill Subcommittee Markup (As Prepared for Delivery)
• Democrats: House Republicans Advance State, Foreign Operations Funding Bill that Would Surrender American Global Leadership to Adversaries While President Trump Pursues Deadly, Costly War with Iran; Ranking Member Frankel [D-FL] Remarks: Fiscal Year 2027 State, Foreign Operations and Related Programs Subcommittee Markup; Ranking Member DeLauro [D-CT] Remarks: Fiscal Year 2027 State, Foreign Operations and Related Agencies Subcommittee Markup

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).

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

• The Intercept [podcast & transcript] 4/24/26: “Me Too” Comes Back To Congress – Intercept staffers discuss the themes emerging this midterm election season. [“…’We’ve seen a lot of candidates, particularly 2028 candidates, whether senatorial or gubernatorial, who have had long-standing relationships with AIPAC or demonstrated pro-Israel policy records like Rahm Emanuel, Cory Booker, Josh Shapiro, Ruben Gallego, all come out now against AIPAC or distancing themselves from AIPAC,’ says Lacy. ‘It doesn’t really matter if you’re rejecting AIPAC money, if you aren’t changing any of the policies that you adopt with respect to how the U.S. treats Israel.’”]
• The Inquirer 4/24/26: Here’s why it’s crucial that political candidates disclose whether they’ve accepted contributions from AIPAC
• Jerusalem Post 4/24/26: Israel must stop pretending bond with US is ‘unbreakable’ before it’s too late
• The Ethics Reporter 4/23/26: Bought and Paid For, Part 1: How AIPAC Spent $126.9 Million to Rewire American Foreign Policy [“This is Part 1 of a multi-part investigative series mapping the complete money trail between AIPAC, its allied super PACs, and the specific U.S. legislation their donations purchased… Part 1: The Architecture — How $126.9 Million Rewired American Foreign Policy; Part 2: The $26 Billion Vote — Who Got Paid, Who Got Eliminated; Part 3: The Assassination of Dissent — Bowman, Bush, and the $23 Million Warning; Part 4: The Embassy Deal — How Sheldon Adelson Bought a Foreign Policy Reversal for $20 Million; Part 5: The FARA Loophole — How a Foreign Lobby Escaped Foreign Agent Registration; Part 6: The Veto Machine — 45 Times America Said No to the World for Israel; Part 7: The Scorecard — How AIPAC Grades and Controls Every Member of Congress“]
• New York Magazine 4/23/26: Chuck Schumer Used to Be Popular. Now He’s Stuck. [“The Schumer backlash, rather, is about his age and his politics. As Israel’s popularity craters and Americans blame it for dragging the U.S. into war with Iran, Schumer has been a steadfast supporter. ‘We say it’s our land — the Torah says it, but they don’t believe in the Torah,’ Schumer said recently about Palestinians, speaking at an AIPAC conference. ‘That’s the reason there is not peace. They invent other reasons, but they do not believe in a Jewish state, and that is why we in America must stand strong with Israel through thick and thin.’ Even five years ago, such remarks would have been par for the course in Democratic politics. Now AIPAC is toxic, resented by many conventional Democrats. A number of potential presidential candidates have said they’d refuse cash from the powerful and deeply hawkish pro-Israel group, and Democrats who previously resolutely backed Israel, like Rahm Emanuel, routinely endorse the once-taboo idea that Israel should be treated like any other American ally and no longer receive unconditional military aid. Schumer, once representing the very middle of his party, has become the outlier. The next leaders of the Democratic Party will not sound like him at all.“]

• Jewish Insider 4/23/26: Sen. Richard Blumenthal says he wants to work to restore bipartisan support for Israel [“‘An overriding goal that has been one of my most profound concerns since coming to the United States Senate is to preserve bipartisan support for Israel,’ Blumenthal told JI“]
• Jerusalem Post 4/23/26: The scourge that is anti-Israel US politicians
• Algemeiner 4/22/26: AIPAC Slightly More Popular Than Democratic Party, Poll Finds
• Jewish Insider 4/22/26: Ex-Democratic Socialists of America official working as top consultant to Osborn, Platner [“Daniel Moraff also recruited Rep. Summer Lee, a leading anti-Israel Democrat, to pursue her political career“]
• Jewish Insider 4/22/26: Adam Schiff, Mark Kelly say future votes on Israel arms sales will be case-by-case 
• Jerusalem Post 4/21/26: Rep. Ro Khanna: Betting against Jews
• MoveOn 4/21/26: AIPAC Continues to Do Trump’s Bidding in Push for More War
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: Israel’s favorability isn’t as bad as feared — but the partisan split is deep, polls show [“Two new polls suggest that the Jewish state still can rely on a sizable, if largely Republican, constituency of support“]
• Global Research 4/21/26: Congress, AIPAC, and Gaza: Inside the Politics of US Support for Israel
• Mondoweiss 4/21/26: Ending aid isn’t enough — we need sanctions and an arms embargo on Israel now [“Lately, the Democrats have begun openly questioning military aid to Israel, but that isn’t enough. Rather, Americans must demand an arms embargo and targeted sanctions to achieve a small measure of justice for all of Zionism’s victims.”]
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: J Street accelerates leftward shift as progressives move to end Iron Dome funding [“J Street’s Ilan Goldenberg said the surge in far-left calls to cut off missile-defense aid ‘stirred up the conversation a little more’ but says the group was moving that way regardless”]
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: RJC endorses GOP frontline Senate candidates [“The group is endorsing candidates Ashely Hinson in Iowa, Mike Rogers in Michigan, Kurt Alme in Montana and Michael Whatley in North Carolina“]
• Real Clear Politics 4/20/26: Rep. Ro Khanna: “I Resent The Fact That Netanyahu Is Going To Tell The U.S. President What To Do”
• Vox 4/20/26: Israel’s critics are winning the battle for the Democratic Party [“Democratic voters turned against Israel. Now their politicians are following.”]
• New York Magazine 4/20/26: Where the Democratic Party Goes After AIPAC
• Jewish Insider 4/20/26: Jewish Democrats face growing prospect of political homelessness [“Michigan is a closely watched bellwether of the direction of the Democratic Party, and the latest developments underscore that a more radical faction of the party appears to be growing“]
• Salon 4/20/26: Big winners at the Democrats’ national meeting: Israel and AIPAC
• The Intercept 4/19/26: Democrats Are Split Over What It Means to Block Israel Weapons Deals [“There’s a divide between those seeking to end all U.S. weapons deals with Israel and those who want to allow some exceptions.“]
• J Street 4/19/26: Democrats Aren’t Turning on Israel. They’re Rejecting the Occupation.
• Jewish Insider 4/19/26: Chorus of anti-Israel voices gathers at Alex Soros summit in Spain [“Attendees included Sen. Chris Murphy, Israeli lawmaker Ahmed Tibi, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa and Brazilian President Lula de Silva“]
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/19/26: Fetterman: Democrats have an antisemitism problem [“’We have a serious problem with my party. So if I have to be the last man standing in the Democratic Party, I’m proud to stand with Israel,’ the Pennsylvania senator said.“]
• Fox News 4/18/26: Sen John Fetterman pledges to be ‘last man standing’ in the Democratic Party in support of Israel [“Pennsylvania senator questioned Democrats’ push for War Powers Resolution as conflict nears end“]
• Jewish Insider 4/18/26: John Fetterman blasts party for tolerating antisemitism within its ranks [“The guy that’s going to win the primary in Maine has a Nazi tattoo on his chest and now that’s no problem for a lot of voters. … That’s crazy,’ Fetterman told CNN“]
• Jewish Insider 4/18/26: No American taxpayer dollars should be used to support this. [“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.“]
• Jewish Insider 4/17/26: Yehuda Kurtzer calls on American Jews to embrace reality of ‘political homelessness’ [“In conversation with The Atlantic’s Jeffrey Goldberg, Kurtzer said the Jewish community is caught between the illiberalism of the left and the illiberalism of the right“]
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/17/26: What do the Democrats want from Israel? [“Senate Democrats haven’t turned on the Jewish state because the Netanyahu government is reckless. It’s because they fear a party base of deluded antisemites.“]
• Zeteo 4/17/26: First Draft: Chuck Schumer’s Gotta Go [“Mehdi on why the Senate minority leader is the wrong leader for this moment, when it comes to both Trump and Israel. Plus: can the new ceasefire in Lebanon hold? And what’s happening over in Gaza?“]

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]

• Washington Post 4/21/26: Democrats need to take more risks. This one isn’t worth it. Hasan Piker is political poison for Democrats.
• The Hill 4/20/26: Hasan Piker’s influence on Democrats questioned before the midterms
• Times of Israel (Blog) 4/20/26: AIPAC, Democracy, and the Strength of the U.S.–Israel Alliance
• Sludge 4/20/26: The Shell Game Donors Use to Hide Their Identities
• The Atlantic 4/19/26: The Problem With Hasan Piker’s Einstein Story

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

• Jewish Insider 4/24/26: Abdul El-Sayed brings in campaign cash from head of Hamas-cheering group [“The Michigan Senate contender accepted $7k from the chair of Al-Awda/PRRC — and hired her son”]
• Jewish Insider 4/23/26: Elissa Slotkin denounces Democratic UM regent nominee Amir Makled
• Semaphor 4/22/26: El-Sayed’s rise riles Democratic moderates, delights the left
• Jewish Insider 4/22/26: Jewish Dems vow to keep fighting in Michigan, even as they question if they belong [“Jewish Democrats described a ‘shell-shocked’ atmosphere at their statewide convention that saw marked hostility to pro-Israel voices“]
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: Michigan Democrat criticizes party for nominating Hezbollah-supporting regent candidate
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: Gary Peters ‘really disappointed’ by heckling of pro-Israel voices at Michigan Dem convention
• Drop Site 4/21/26: Michigan Dems Came Down Hard On Student Protests Against the Gaza Genocide. It Just Blew Up in Their Face.
• WDET 4/21/26: Some Michigan Dems look for inspiration at endorsement convention, others want to change the system
• WFIN 4/20/26: Left-wing activists heckle pro-Israel Democrat Haley Stevens at Michigan convention
• Deadline Detroit 4/20/26: Michigan Democratic Convention Leaves Some Jews Wondering If They Still Belong in the Party. Israel Is At Issue.
• Detroit News 4/20/26: Michigan Democrats try to mend old divides at contentious convention
• Fox News 4/20/26: Michigan Democratic Senate candidate claims Israel ‘just as evil’ as Hamas
• Detroit News 4/20/26: Finley: Michigan Democrats use convention to embrace antisemitism
• Michigan Advance 4/20/26: Political fault line over Israel comes into full view during Michigan Democrats’ convention
• Michigan Chronicle 4/19/26: Boos Erupt Against Pro-Israel Candidates at Michigan Democratic Party Convention
• The Forward 4/19/26: U.S. Senate candidate from Michigan calls Israeli government ‘evil’ like Hamas [“Abdul El-Sayed, doubled down on his criticism of the Netanyahu government and defended campaigning with controversial streamer Hasan Piker“]
• CNN 4/19/26: How a must-win Michigan Senate race turned messy for Democrats [“…’We’re running for Senate for Michigan, and as a senator from Michigan, you should be more interested in what’s happening in Michigan than you are interested in what’s happening in Tel Aviv,’ El-Sayed said. “]
• NBC Palm Springs 4/19/26: Michigan Senate Primary Heats Up as Progressives and Moderates Clash Over Israel and Healthcare
• Jewish Insider 4/19/26: Abdul El-Sayed says the Israeli government is as evil as Hamas [“The Michigan Senate candidate also said in the CNN interview that he supports Chris Van Hollen as Senate Democratic leader over Chuck Schumer“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

• New Jersey Globe 4/24/26: Pro-Palestine super PAC plans to spend $2 million supporting Hamawy
• New Jersey Globe 4/21/26: Menendez leads in NJ-8 race but could be vulnerable, Ali internal poll argues [“Poll finds 8th district voters disapprove of AIPAC, support Medicare for All“]
• Insider New Jersey 4/21/26: Dixon Drops out, Backs Hamawy
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: Sue Altman accuses challenger in N.J. race of ‘cheerleading’ the ‘deaths of Israeli children’ [“Adam Hamawy said on Hasan Piker’s show that he does not support Israel’s Iron Dome missile-defense system, arguing that it insulates Israel from the consequences of war“]
• Jewish Insider 4/18/26: In New Jersey election results, signs of defections among Jewish Democrats [“While Democrat Analilia Mejia comfortably won the special election to succeed Mikie Sherrill, Jewish voters swung to the right”]
• Times of Israel 4/18/26: Harsh Israel critic Analilia Mejía wins US House seat in New Jersey special election [“Bernie Sanders ally who has accused Israel of genocide will fill NJ’s 11th district seat until January; AIPAC had boosted Mejía in primary by opposing more moderate Tom Malinowski“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

• Drop Site 4/23/26: Despite Denials, AIPAC Is Now Funding Campaign of Ala Stanford In Philadelphia
• WISS News 4/23/26: Fitzpatrick has $7M more on hand than Democrats challenging him [“Two Democrats have filed paperwork to appear on the primary ballot next month for the seat: Bucks County Commissioner Bob Harvie and Lucia Simonelli, a scientist. Harvie received endorsements from the Bucks County Democratic Committee and the Montgomery County Democratic Committee, as well as a bevy of local elected officials, while Simonelli is supported by Indivisible Greater Jenkintown, Indivisible Lower Merion, and Track AIPAC.”]
• Mondoweiss 4/22/26: Philadelphia primary race becomes the latest Democratic Party battle between the pro-Palestine left and Israel lobby [“Chris Rabb’s surprising surge in Philadelphia’s crowded PA-3 House primary has made the race the latest Democratic Party battle between the insurgent pro-Palestine left and the Israel lobby.”]
• Philly Burbs 4/22/26: Cash flows to race for Congress in Bucks County. Who’s funding it [“The three candidates for Pennsylvania’s 1st Congressional District appear to differ on accepting money from corporate PACs and foreign interest-aligned groups such as AIPAC…Fitzpatrick accepts corporate PAC and AIPAC money, Harvie says he’ll reject corporate PAC funds but is open to AIPAC, and Simonelli says she’ll reject both.“]
• New York Post 4/21/26: Sen. John Fetterman receives no support for re-election from Pennsylvania House Democrats: report
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: Progressive heavyweights line up behind Israel critic Chris Rabb in crowded Pa. congressional primary [“State Rep. Chris Rabb is backed by Sen. Chris Van Hollen and Reps. Jamie Raskin, Ilhan Omar, Ro Khanna and Pramila Jayapal; he’s running against state Sen. Sharif Street”]
• Jewish Insider 4/18/26: Republican Brian Fitzpatrick files House war powers resolution to enforce Iran military conflict deadlines [“The swing-district Republican is the first GOP lawmaker other than isolationist Thomas Massie to support constraining the administration’s military operations in Iran“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

• Jewish Insider 4/24/26: Conley, Davidson distance themselves from Senate votes to block Israel aid in Jewish community forum [“The two Democratic candidates hoping to take on Rep. Mike Lawler generally defended continued aid; both emphasized the need for proper oversight of and accountability for U.S. aid”]
• New York Times 4/23/26: Congressman’s Gambit to Save Seat: He’ll Personally Match Each Donation [“…as his party shifts leftward on key issues, Mr. Goldman has instead faced accusations that his support for Israel’s war in Gaza, and his lack of enthusiasm for Zohran Mamdani, the city’s leftist mayor, make him a poor match for parts of his district’s progressive base. While Mr. Goldman has criticized Israel’s right-wing government, he has repeatedly voted to send it American military aid. He also declined to endorse Mr. Mamdani…“]
• Jewish Insider 4/20/26: Jack Schlossberg to skip Jewish candidate forums as questions remain around Israel stance [“Backed by prominent donors and polling at the top of the Democratic primary field for NY-12, Schlossberg says he supports Iron Dome but is open to restricting U.S. aid to Israel“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Kentucky

• Jewish Insider 4/22/26: CUFI spends six figures on anti-Thomas Massie billboard campaign [“The Christian Zionist group said it has secured ‘every available billboard’ in Massie’s congressional district for a month ahead of the May 19 primary“]
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: AIPAC’s super PAC takes aim at Thomas Massie with major ad buy [“The ad hits the Republican congressman for voting with liberal Democrats on Israel, among other issues“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics –  California

• KBPS 4/22/26: Rep. Juan Vargas denies receiving AIPAC money, contradicting the public record
• Zeteo 4/21/26: Meet the Young Jewish Congresswoman Calling Out the UAE and Israel Over War Crimes
• Politico 4/21/26: In California, Israel is emerging as a defining Democratic test
• San Diego Jewish World 4/20/26: Congressional candidate switches parties to oppose Sara Jacobs on Israel

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Mississippi

• The Dispatch 4/21/26: Colom raises another $600K for campaign, keeping pace with incumbent

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

• Jewish News Syndicate 4/21/26: Dem rep resigns in scandal, clearing path for socialist Jewish convert critical of Israel [“The resignation of Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick could clear the path for Elijah Manley, a convert to Judaism running as a Democratic Socialist and frequent Israel critic.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

• Jewish Insider 4/22/26: Elizabeth Warren shrugs off Graham Platner praise of Hamas [“Warren lauded Platner’s economic populist message rather than address his extremist rhetoric”]
• New York Times 4/22/26: Graham Platner Went to Hell and Back. He Has a Simple Message for Democrats. (op-ed by Ben Rhodes)

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia

• Jewish News Syndicate 4/22/26: Pro-Israel Georgia Democratic Rep David Scott dies at age 80 [“After Scott’s death, anti-Israel group Track AIPAC touted the possibility of replacing him with a primary opponent who accuses Israel of ‘genocide.’”]

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

• Jewish Insider 4/23/26: Hegseth blindsided Senate Republicans with sudden firing of Navy secretary
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: Moderate Democrats concerned about Israel’s chilly relations with Europe [“Rep. Josh Gottheimer called the trend ‘deeply alarming’ as Spain and Ireland moved to cut EU ties with Israel”]
• Türkiye Today 4/21/26: AIPAC-funded US senator says Türkiye will never get F-35 jets
• Jewish Insider 4/21/26: Sen. Chris Murphy applauds Iranian ships against U.S. Navy [“The Connecticut senator responded ‘awesome’ to a report that 26 Iranian vessels evaded the U.S.’ maritime blockade”]
• The Forward 4/20/26: Congress thinks my college is failing on antisemitism. My Jewish students disagree [“A new House report on campus antisemitism seems to have involved minimal engagement with actual Jews at actual universities”]

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]

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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.

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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:

• 4/13/26: The Iran Blockade and Israel’s War Logic, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with FMEP president Lara Friedman
• 4/10/26: Iran, the DNC, and Prospects for a Ceasefire, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with Matt Duss (Center for International Policy)

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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:

• Floor debate: Senate floor debate on S. J. Res. 32 and S. J. Res. 138 is here. Speaking in support: Sanders (I-VT), Van Hollen (D-MD), Merkley (D-OR), Kaine (D-VA). Speaking against: Risch (R-ID).
• Media, pre-votes: Democratic Senators Face Pressure on Israel Arms Sales Vote [“Activists are pushing centrist Democrats to vote against arms sales, linking weapons transfers to the unpopular Iran war.“] (Jewish Currents 4/14/26); Human Rights Mean Nothing If Congress Funds Their Destruction (A New Policy 4/14/26); Congress must act to stop the Israeli war machine (Mondoweiss 4/14/26); Congress must act to stop the Israeli war machine (Mondoweiss 4/14/26)
• Senators, pre-votes: Sanders (I-VT) 4/15/26: X-post – “For Netanyahu, the war in Gaza was not enough. Iran was not enough. He is now waging a full-blown war of expansion in Lebanon. The time is long overdue for Congress to listen to the American people and end U.S. military aid to the extremist Israeli government.” Sanders (I-VT) 4/15/26: X-post w/ video clip – “No more taxpayer dollars to support Netanyahu and his extremist Israeli government.”  Sanders (I-VT) 4/15/26: X-post w/ video clip – “The American people want to make certain their tax dollars are spent responsibly. In strong and growing numbers, they do not want us to continue spending billions in support of the illegal, horrific and expansionist war policies of the Netanyahu government in Israel.” Sanders (I-VT) 4/13/26: X-post – “This week, I will be forcing a vote on legislation to block the sale of nearly half a billion dollars worth of bombs and bulldozers to the Israeli military. The extremist Netanyahu government that has committed genocide in Gaza does not need more military support from American taxpayers.”   Welch (D-VT) 4/15/26: X-post – “I will join @SenSanders to force a vote blocking the sale of bombs and bulldozers to Israel. Prime Minister Netanyahu is using them to displace millions of civilians in Lebanon, Iran, and Gaza. The U.S. shouldn’t finance civilian suffering. I hope our colleagues join us.” Van Hollen (D-MD) 4/15/26: X-post w/ video clip- “The Netanyahu gov helped launch the Iran war, has unleashed an offensive in Lebanon & continues to harm civilians in the West Bank & Gaza. We shouldn’t send taxpayer-funded bombs & equipment to facilitate this brutality. We must stop Trump’s arms transfer” Markey (D-MA) 4/15/26: X-post – “We should not send 1,000 pound bombs and armored bulldozers to Netanyahu that could be used not only in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon, but also in Trump’s illegal Iran war. There’s no military solution to this crisis. We must solve this at the negotiating table & end this war.“
• Media, post-votes: Senate Democrats Issue Historic Rebuke Of Military Aid For Israel [“Wednesday’s votes showed the biggest-ever rejection from Congress of American weapons for the country, reflecting broad public frustration with devastating U.S.-Israeli cooperation.“] (Huffington Post 4/15/26); Nearly all Senate Democrats vote to block Israel arms sales (Jewish News Syndicate 4/15/26); Following Bernie Sanders’ lead, 40 Senate Democrats vote against arms sales to Israel [“Forty Senate Democrats voted to block sales of bulldozers to Israel, while 36 voted to block the sales of 1,000-pound bombs“] (Jewish Insider 4/15/26); In historic Senate vote, over 75% of Democrats vote to block arms sales to Israel (Mondoweiss 4/16/26); Israel hits a low point with Democrats in Congress (Axios 4/15/26); Record number of Senate Dems vote against Israel (Punchbowl News 4/16/26); In historic Senate vote, over 75% of Democrats vote to block arms sales to Israel (Mondoweiss 4/16/26); Opposing Weapons Sales to Israel Is the New Democratic Norm [“Just four years ago, it would have been unthinkable that three-quarters of Senate Democrats would back resolutions to block selling weapons to Israel. Wednesday’s vote is only a preview of how the Israel debate will play out in the Democratic primaries“] (Haaretz 4/16/26); The Dam Breaks: Democratic Senators Overwhelmingly Reject Arms Sales to Israel (The Intercept 4/15/26); In major shift, all but 7 Senate Democrats vote to block weapons sales to Israel [“Several Jewish moderates and likely 2028 presidential contenders newly voted for the resolutions“] (The Forward 4/16/26); Senate rejects blocking military aid to Israel, but bills gain majority Democrat support (Jerusalem Post 4/16/26); Senate again fails to block weapons to Israel [“But pair of votes got strong majority of Democrats on board, which some are calling an ‘historic’ turning point for Tel Aviv’s blank check.'”] (Responsible Statecraft 4/15/26); Senate vote on arms sale shows ‘massive cracks’ in US support for Israel (Al Jazeera 4/16/26)
• Senators, post-votes:  Sanders (I-VT) 4/15/26: X-post – “Today, more than 80% of the Democratic caucus stood with the American people and voted to block U.S. military aid to Netanyahu and his horrific, illegal wars.” Also see: Murray (D-WA), Baldwin (D-WI), Lujan (D-NM)  Slotkin (D-MI), Merkley (D-OR), Murphy (D-CT), Blumenthal (D-CT), Warner (D-VA), Coons (D-DE), Merkley (D-OR), Padilla (D-CA) and Schiff (D-CA), Bennet (D-CO), Shaheen (D-NH), Hassan (D-NH), Welch (D-VT)
• House members weigh in: Pocan (D-WI), Omar (D-MN), Jayapal (D-WA), and Khanna (D-CA) 4/15/26: X-post – “Chuck Schumer was one of 7 Senate Democrats to vote to send bulldozers to Israel. 40 Democratic Senators voted no. Mr. Schumer, you are out of touch with our base and the nation. Step aside.“
• Others: X-thread by Dylan Williams, Center for International Policy 4/15/26 – “The fact that 40 of 47 Democratic Senators voted to withhold military hardware from Israel is a new high water mark in holding Israel accountable for violating US and international law. It is still troubling that a few Democrats and all Republicans voted to supply the arms. With over 70% of Democratic voters in favor of halting arms sales to Israel, Senators who opposed these measures cannot truly represent the party in top positions on relevant committees or in caucus leadership—nor can they inspire the support needed to regain the White House. Ever-growing numbers of Americans are making clear that they do not want to subsidize a foreign country that pushes the United States to wage costly wars and uses our aid and arms to commit atrocities that undermine our values and security. Much of Congress needs to catch up.” X-post [with images of AIPAC message] by Bryan Metzger, Business Insider 4/16/26: “AIPAC blasted an “Action Alert” urging people to contact their senators and “thank those who voted NO on Sanders’ dangerous resolutions and express your disappointment in those who voted YES.” It includes talking points as well. Sent to me by a Hill staffer who received it…“ X-post [with images of AIPAC message] by Jacob Kornbluth, the Forward 4/16/26): “AIPAC in action alert to members: ‘It’s critical that Senators hear from pro-Israel constituents, expressing appreciation for those who voted to stand with Israel and disappointment to those who voted to block arms to our ally fighting a multi-front war.’ Talking points:”

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:

• Floor consideration of the resolution is here.
• Media:  Democrats’ Iran war powers push fails in the Senate once more [“Even after their fourth failed attempt, Democrats say they intend to continue forcing such votes weekly”] (Jewish Insider 4/15/26); House narrowly blocks Iran war powers resolution, as most Democratic defectors fall in line [“All but one of the four Democrats who had opposed the previous war powers effort flipped their votes in support“] (Jewish Insider 4/16/26); Iran war powers resolution fails in House by single vote (Jewish News Syndicate 4/16/26); Scoop: Democrats eye new strategy after Iran war powers fail (Axios 4/16/26); US House rejects effort to pull forces from Iran war as Republicans stick with Trump [“Democratic rep. warns of conflict with ‘no exit ramps,’ while GOP member accuses rivals of hypocrisy for not giving Congressional approval to Biden’s bombardment of Houthis in 2024″] (Times of Israel 4/16/26)

(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:

• Press releases/X-posts: Kaine (D-VA), Baldwin (D-WI)
• Media: Six more Democratic senators file new war powers resolutions to stop conflict in Iran (Jewish Insider 4/13/26)

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:

• Roy (R-TX) 4/13/26: X-post – “‘The ‘Designating Hamas Affiliates in America Act’ cuts off CAIR’s money and power. It sends a clear message that groups supporting terrorism have no place in the United States.’ Rep. Roy’s bill takes the fight to those who aid terrorist groups.“
• Jerusalem Post 4/12/26: Texas Congressman presents bill to designate CAIR a terror org., revoke NGO status, over Hamas ties

2. Letters

• (TRUMP ADMIN SHADY CRYPTO PLAN FOR GAZA) 4/17/26: Merkley, Warren, Van Hollen, Sanders Probe Trump-Backed Board of Peace’s Plan to Rebuild Gaza with Shady Cryptocurrency [letter text]
• (TURKISH BANK CRIMINAL CHARGES DROPPED) 4/16/26: Sens. Schiff, Leader Schumer, Blumenthal Probe DOJ’s Decision to Drop Criminal Charges Against Turkish Bank, Raises Concerns of Trump’s Political Interference [letter text]. Questions include: “Was dismissing the Halkbank prosecution a condition of Turkey’s assistance in Gaza, and if so, what was the potential financial value to the Turkish government?”
• (INSIDER OIL TRADING BEFORE CEASEFIRE) 4/14/26: Rep. Ritchie Torres Calls on SEC and CFTC to Investigate $950 Million Oil Futures Trade Ahead of U.S.-Iran Ceasefire [letter text embedded in press release]
• (IRS TARGETING OF PROGRESSIVE GROUPS) 4/14/26: Democrats Launch Inquiry into Weaponization of IRS [letter text]. Excerpt: “...The President’s use of the IRS to target any particular taxpayer is both unlawful and unacceptable. Therefore, we are deeply troubled that not only has the IRS compiled a list of Democratic donors and “left-leaning” nonprofit organizations, but that the Administration is moving to label these groups as domestic terrorists…“
• (YEMEN TPS STATUS) 4/14/26: Tlaib Leads [23] Lawmakers Demanding Trump Administration Redesignate and Extend TPS for Yemen [letter text]
• (TARGETING ACTBLUE RE ALLEGED DONATIONS FROM FOREIGN NATIONALS) 4/14/26: Chairmen Steil, Jordan, and Comer Demand ActBlue Immediately Comply with Past Subpoenas [letter text]
• (BETTING ON US MILITARY ACTION) 4/13/26: Vindman Demands Polymarket Turn Over Records on Bets Tied to U.S. Military Actions [letter text embedded in press release]

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.

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.

• Jewish Currents 4/17/26: In Democratic Primaries, Leading Candidates Oppose Selling Iron Dome Interceptors to Israel [“Weeks after Ocasio-Cortez’s dramatic turnabout, the politics of the US-Israel military relationship are transforming.”]
• TRT World 4/17/26: How the powerful pro-Israel lobby keeps controlling Democrats in the US [“By voice vote, the Democratic Party rejected a resolution condemning AIPAC-linked ‘dark money,’ a term used to denote election-related spending in which the exact donor source is not clearly disclosed.“]
• Common Dreams 4/17/26: AIPAC Is Wasting Its Money on Democrats (And That’s a Good Thing) [“Let’s do the math on congressional votes this week and AIPAC’s return on investment with Democratic lawmakers.”]
• Washington Times 4/16/26: Not your father’s Democratic Party: Israel loses its grip on the left
• Zeteo 4/16/26: AIPAC Is ‘Toxic’: Top Senator Calls on Dems To Stop Taking Money From the Pro-Israel Lobby [“Peter Welch was also one of 40 senators who voted in favor of blocking the US sale of arms to Israel in what he calls a ‘historic moment.’“]
• Times of Israel 4/16/26: Why US funding for Israel’s Iron Dome is losing support on both sides of the aisle [“Budgeting for the purely defensive anti-missile system was once a given, but since Oct. 7, left-wing progressives, financial conservatives, and liberal Zionists all have reasons to see it go“]
• Israel Policy Forum 4/16/26: The New American Reality of the Politics of Israel [“...Israel is now viewed by many Americans across the political spectrum as a drag on the U.S., whether due to a perception that it creates too many foreign policy and military entanglements or due to a perception that its actions erode American values and moral authority. This is the driver of why the traditional politics of Israel have broken down, and absent very different Israeli governments and wholesale shifts in Israeli policies, those politics will not be reassembled in the manner to which the pro-Israel community and American Jews have been acclimated for decades. We need to absorb that the shift is structural and adjust in order to safeguard our core principles. That means reassessing what is achievable, and what policies those core principles can and cannot reasonably accommodate in an environment where to be pro-Israel is to be a political minority.”]
• Mondoweiss 4/15/26: The Israel lobby is fracturing as young Jews abandon Zionism
• Jewish Journal 4/15/26: The Young Are Turning on Israel [“Both the Gallup and Pew polls showed that opposition to Israel is much stronger among young people in both parties.“]
• DropSite 4/15/26: Voters Think Candidates Who Won’t Stand Up To AIPAC Won’t Fight On Other Issues, Either: New Poll [“A new poll from Drop Site and Zeteo finds Democratic Senate voters in Michigan care more about limiting AIPAC’s influence than Hasan Piker’s.”]
• Jewish Insider 4/15/26: Inside the DNC working group at the center of Democrats’ Israel fight [“The question facing the Middle East working group’s members is whether they will actually be able to agree on anything — or if the group is simply a way to push the issue off until 2028“]
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 4/14/26: Most American Jews oppose AIPAC spending in Democratic primaries, survey finds [“Most have ‘not heard much’ about the role pro-Israel groups have played in this year’s primaries, another survey found.”]
• Haaretz 4/15/26: Most U.S. Jews Oppose AIPAC Spending in Democratic Primaries, Poll Shows
• Washington Times 4/14/26: Jewish Democrats, led by younger voters, express rising opposition to AIPAC’s role in primaries
• Jewish Insider 4/14/26: New survey of Jewish voters finds partisan divide over pro-Israel political engagement [“The poll found AIPAC viewed more favorably by Jewish Republicans and independents, while Democrats gravitated more to DMFI“]
• Organized Money (David Dayen & Matt Stoller) 4/14/26: How AIPAC Tries to Dominate the Business of Politics
• Jewish Insider 4/14/26: As filing deadline hits, campaign cash shows the power of online extremes
• The Nation 4/14/26: A Major Taboo Was Broken at the DNC Last Weekend [“An AIPAC-specific resolution didn’t make it through the party’s meeting. But I’ve never seen such an open debate about the role of pro-Israel money before.“]
• Union for Reform Judaism 4/13/26: URJ Statement on AIPAC, Campaign Rhetoric, and Antisemitism [“…to single out and disproportionately demonize AIPAC as a distinctively harmful dark-money entity crosses the line into antisemitic tropes about sinister Jewish political influence.“]
• The Forward 4/13/26: US funding for Israel’s Iron Dome air defense system used to enjoy bipartisan support. Not anymore.
• Wall Street Journal 4/13/26: Bernie Sanders Is Back as a Left-Wing Kingmaker [“The senator is helping progressives win primaries, but some Democrats worry that won’t translate to victories in general elections”]
• Jewish Insider 4/13/26: The left’s shifting Overton Window on Israel [“A growing number of progressive candidates are now racing to disavow all military support for Israel, including for defensive systems such as the Iron Dome“]
• Times of Israel (Blogs) 4/12/26: When ‘Dark Money’ Becomes a Political Weapon [“AIPAC is being singled out because of what it represents, not because of how it spends its resources. In today’s progressive climate, AIPAC represents a worldview that rejects the ideological framing on the progressive left. And so ‘dark money’ becomes the perfect political weapon. Not to fix a broken system, but to discredit a political adversary.”]
• NBC News 4/12/26: AIPAC may be a new litmus test for Democratic candidates. Leaders say voters’ heads are elsewhere. [“Last week’s Democratic National Committee meeting illustrated a party trying to stay focused on economic issues while grappling with strong, changing opinions on Israel.“]
• Politico 4/10/26: Inside the DNC’s Middle East (not) working group [“The Democratic National Committee set up a task force to tackle the Middle East. Seven months later, the working group still has work to do.“]
• Jewish Insider 4/10/26: Elissa Slotkin warns against equating Jewish donors with ‘Israel lobby’ [Slotkin was responding to a question about pro-Israel money, not about Jewish donors – so in fact it was Slotkin, not critics of AIPAC, either engaging in this equating or raising a straw man argument about people doing the alleged equating…]
• Jewish Insider 4/10/26: Former Rep. Eliot Engel, Foreign Affairs Committee chair and stalwart supporter of Israel, dies at 79 [“Engel, who was Jewish, rose to become the chair of the House Foreign Affairs Committee when Democrats retook the House in 2018, after serving as the ranking member from 2013 to 2018. He was a strong and vocal advocate for the U.S.-Israel relationship and the Jewish community, also acting as a co-chair of the House antisemitism task force…In an exit interview with Jewish Insider in 2020, Engel said that he had committed himself throughout his career to being ‘the best friend that Israel ever had in Congress, and I think that I have kept up that bargain’…”]
• Mondoweiss 4/9/26: Military aid to Israel emerges as the latest political litmus test for Democrats

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]

• The Atlantic 4/16/26: Israel Moderates Are Losing the Democratic Party – Their position has become untenable. But liberal Zionists can adapt
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/16/26: Hasan Piker is the Democrats’ Tucker Carlson, only worse [“The rise of the popular podcaster illustrates the left’s normalization of antisemitism. Rather than shunning him, liberal opinion leaders are tolerating his extremism.“]
• Semaphor 4/15/26: The fizzling of Piker-gate shows cancel culture may be over for campaigns
• Jewish Insider 4/15/26: Rep. Ilhan Omar praises Marjorie Taylor Greene, Candace Owens for breaking with Trump [“Omar is finding common cause with Greene over their anti-Israel views, even though the Republican wanted her deported from the country”]
• Free Press 4/15/26: Actually, Hasan Piker Is the Democrats’ Enemy
• Identity Crisis (Yehuda Kurtzer) 4/14/26: Ezra Klein and the Perils of Misplaced Pluralism
• Times of Israel (Blogs) 4/13/26: What Ezra Klein Gets Wrong about Anti-Zionism
• New York Post 4/13/26: New York Times faces backlash for changing headline of op-ed on far-left streamer Hasan Piker
• The Week 4/13/26: Hasan Piker: Too toxic for Democrats?
• Jewish Insider 4/13/26: Hasan Piker doubles down on Hamas support
• New York Post 4/13/26: Increasingly lost Dems are cozying up to Hasan Piker in quest for youth vote — but setting themselves up to fail again
• New York Post 4/12/26: Sen. Elissa Slotkin calls out far-left streamer Hasan Piker, asks what ‘normal’ person would go on such an antagonistic show
• New York Times 4/12/26: This Is Why There’s No Liberal Joe Rogan [original headline: “Hasan Piker Is Not the Enemy.”]
• The Message Box [Dan Pfeiffer, Pod Save America] 4/11/26: The Counterproductive Campaign Against Hasan Piker

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

• Zeteo 4/15/26: EXCLUSIVE POLL: Michigan’s Dem Senate Race Is Wide Open, AIPAC Is Toxic, Hasan Piker Is Not
• Fox News 4/14/26: Far-left Senate hopeful’s radical ties to ‘Maduro cronies’ could torpedo campaign: ‘Tired of the chaos’
• The Bulwark 4/12/26: What I Saw When Hasan Piker and Abdul El-Sayed Came to Town
• Jewish Insider 4/10/26: Anti-Israel groups organize behind Gaza doctor in N.J. House primary [“Adam Hamawy has been endorsed by CAIR, Justice Democrats and a new group affiliated with the Institute of Middle East Understanding“]
• The Forward 4/10/26: Temple Israel rabbi criticizes Michigan Senate candidate for ‘offensive’ remarks about attack

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

• The New Republic 4/17/26: Progressive Democrat Wins Special Election in Huge Rejection of AIPAC
• Politico 4/17/26: AIPAC’s 3D chess pays off [“I’m just kidding with that email subject line. The AP called the race for Analilia Mejia seven minutes after polls closed. It was never close…”]
• Haaretz 4/15/26: In Further Blow to AIPAC, Democrat Who Accused Israel of Genocide Wins NJ Special Election [“Analilia Mejía – the former national political director for Bernie Sanders – defeated Joe Hathaway to narrow the Republicans’ House majority”]
• The Forward 4/11/26: After AIPAC-backed primary loss, Tom Malinowski endorses rival who says Israel committed genocide [“Analilia Mejia, running in New Jersey’s 11th Congressional District, was also endorsed by the liberal pro-Israel group J Street“]

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

• The Forward 4/11/26: Dan Bilzerian wants to ‘kill Israelis’ and thinks Judaism is ‘terrible.’ Now he’s running for Congress.
• The Hill 4/8/26: Influencer Dan Bilzerian files paperwork to challenge Fine in Florida

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Tennessee

• TN Holler 4/10/26: Do Tennessee Democratic Congressional Candidates Support Ending Aid to Israel?

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Minnesota

• Drop Site News 4/17/26: Rep. Angie Craig’s Campaign Is Quietly Distancing the Minnesota Senate Hopeful From AIPAC
• Jewish Insider 4/14/26: Angie Craig calls on Minnesota Democrats to investigate antisemitism ahead of state party convention [“Delegates are expected to take up divisive anti-Israel resolutions at the convention being held next month“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

• Jewish Insider 4/15/26: ‘I dig it’: Graham Platner praised Hamas tactics in 2014 graphic video of killings of Israeli soldiers [“Platner, in Reddit post on Hamas terrorist attack: ‘From a strictly professional standpoint, this was a damn fine looking and successful raid against a superior opponent’”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland

• Maryland Matters 4/17/26: Millions already raised, spent on handful of Maryland congressional primaries

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Connecticut

• News From The States 4/16/26: Larson, Bronin in a tight battle for campaign donations

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

• The Floridian 4/16/26: Congressional Holy War Brewing in Florida’s 6th District [“The anti-Israel, anti-Jewish sentiment continues to flourish in Florida“]

Iran

• Jewish Insider 4/15/26: Several top Senate Republicans, including John Thune, express hope Iran war winds down
• Jewish Insider 4/14/26: Senate Republicans maintain Iran should have no enrichment capacity, amid reports of 20-year pause proposal

Other Stuff

• Jewish Insider 4/17/26: Elise Stefanik showcases her fight against campus antisemitism in new book ‘Poisoned Ivies’

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:

• 4/7/26: Censorship, Repression, and Migration of Jewish Israelis, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with journalist Oren Ziv (+972 Magazine/Local Call & Activestills)
• 4/6/26: Challenging Anti-Palestinian Repression – in the UK & Europe, ft. FMEP President Lara Friedman in conversation with Dr. Amira Abdelhamid, Director of Research & Monitoring at the European Legal Support Center (ELSC)

Also featuring FMEP:

• 4/9/26: US Policies in MENA Under Trump: Key Shifts, Enduring Continuities, and Regional Impacts – Panel at Arab Center Washington conference: Trump’s Second Term: Upending Democracy, Development, and Diplomacy, ft. Rhana Natour (Middle East Eye), Trita Parsi (Responsible Statecraft), Lara Friedman (FMEP), Shana R. Marshall (George Washington University), & Marc Lynch (George Washington University).

—————————-

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

• (SUSPICIOUS BETTING ON CEASEFIRE) 4/9/26: Blumenthal Demands Answers from Polymarket Following Suspicious Bets on Ceasefire [letter text]
• (SUSPICIOUS BETTING ON CEASEFIRE) 4/9/26: Rep. Torres Calls on CFTC to Investigate Suspicious Polymarket Trades Ahead of Trump’s Iran Ceasefire Announcement [letter embedded in press release]
• (NO ECONOMIC PLANNING PRIOR TO LAUNCH OF IRAN WAR) 4/9/26: Following Meetings with Top Treasury Official, Wyden Reveals Treasury Department Failed to Plan for Economic Fallout from Iran War [“Senator Wyden wrote to Secretary Bessent seeking confirmation of Kothari’s statements, which came during routine meetings in the process of vetting Kothari’s nomination.“] [letter text]
• (TARGETING NON-PROFIT ORGS) 4/8/26: Chairmen Moolenaar, Smith Call on IRS to Examine CCP-Linked Organizations Potentially Violating their Tax-Exempt Status by Engaging in Political Activity [letter text]
• (IRAN WAR/25th AMENDMENT) 4/8/26: Larson Calls on Vice President Vance and Cabinet to Invoke the 25th Amendment [letter text]
• (IRAN WAR/SUSPICIOUS OIL FUTURES TRADES) 4/8/26: Rep. Torres Demands SEC and CFTC Investigate Suspicious Oil Futures Trade Made Ahead of Trump Iran Announcement [letter embedded in press release]
• (ILLEGAL OFFSHORE WAR BETTING MARKETS) 4/7/26: Moulton and McGovern Demand CFTC Explain Why It Has Not Acted Against Illegal Offshore War Betting Markets [letter text]
• (ISRAEL MUST PROTECT ACCESS TO CHRISTIAN HOLY SITES) 3/31/26: Dingell, DeLauro Urge State Department to Ensure Governments Respect Access to Holy Sites After Clergy Blocked from Church in Israel at Start of Holy Week [letter text]

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.

Israel/AIPAC & the DNC

• The Hill 4/10/26: DNC delivers blow to progressives on Israel issues
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/10/26: Democratic Party shelves three resolutions targeting Israel, AIPAC
• Democratic Majority for Israel 4/9/26: DMFI pleased DNC panel rejects anti-Israel measures
• Washington Examiner 4/9/26: Democrats reject measure targeting dark money and AIPAC at spring meeting
• Jewish Insider 4/9/26: DNC resolution criticizing AIPAC involvement in primaries voted down in committee [“The vote was the latest defeat by anti-Israel activists within the Democratic National Committee“] NOTE: X-post 4/9/26 by DNC Chair Ken Martin: “Let’s be clear on what really happened: Today, the Resolutions Committee voted to pass a resolution condemning the corrosive influence of ALL dark money in Democratic primaries. We had various resolutions that focused on different industries and groups, and instead of going one-by-one, we passed a blanket repudiation. I have made my position on this clear from day one: We must end the influence of dark money in our politics and restore power back to the people.“
• The New Republic 4/9/26: DNC Kills Resolution Condemning AIPAC Influence in Elections [“The Democratic National Committee has once again proved it is out of step with the base of the party.“]
• Common Dreams 4/9/26: DNC Panel Rejects Resolution Condemning AIPAC’s Spending on Elections [“The resolution was “’out of step with the policies of the Democratic Party’ while being entirely in step with the vast majority of Democratic voters,” said one advocate.“]
• CBS News 4/9/26: Israel tensions surface as Democrats plot US midterms
• The Intercept 4/9/26: DNC Shoots Down Resolutions Calling Out AIPAC and Limiting Arms to Israel [“The party just kicked the can down the road again on Israel, deepening the divide between party members and their leaders.“]
• Fox News 4/9/26: Unity tested: Democrats face off over Israel and AIPAC dark money during DNC meeting
• The Guardian 4/9/26: DNC rejects resolution condemning influence of pro-Israel Aipac lobby
• Politico 4/9/26: DNC avoids taking a stance on Israel, AIPAC
• ABC News 4/9/26: DNC votes down ‘dark money’ resolution singling out AIPAC, defers resolution on military aid to Israel
• Politico 4/9/26: The DNC is meeting — and Israel is at the forefront once again [“Democratic National Committee members are facing a series of votes testing the party’s views on Israel and AIPAC.“]
• Semaphor 4/6/26: Democratic Party faces its internal demons on US-Israel policy — again
• Jewish Chronicle 4/5/26: Pro-Israel Lobby Singled Out – Democrats to weigh resolution condemning AIPAC, fueling concerns about ‘undercurrent of antisemitism’ [“The DNC resolution comes as rejecting the pro-Israel lobbying group’s support has become a defining issue in Democratic races.“]

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

• The Hill 4/9/26: Khanna: Netanyahu in Situation Room ‘a betrayal of the American people’
• MoveOn-dot-org 4/9/26: MoveOn Launches Primary Campaign to Boot Dems Backed By Defense Contractors, AIPAC, and AI
• Mondoweiss 4/9/26: Military aid to Israel emerges as the latest political litmus test for Democrats
• Washington Reporter 4/9/26: AIPAC shifts focus to May primaries, following wins in Illinois
• Daily Campus 4/9/26: AIPAC Republicans, “America Last” politicians  
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency t 4/9/26: A new anti-Zionist PAC has endorsed candidates who believe Jews were behind 9/11 [“Michael Rectenwald, the founder of AZAPAC, has referred to Jewish people as ‘the Synagogue of Satan.’”]
• New York Sun 4/7/26: Democrats’ Obsession With AIPAC a Pretext for Ugly Conspiracies and Fearmongering [“It is difficult to function within left-wing politics, increasingly dominated by the alliance of socialists and pro-Islamists, without condemning AIPAC and Israel.“]
• Common Dreams 4/6/26: While Distancing from AIPAC, Most 2028 Democratic Hopefuls Are Still Embracing Israel
• Jewish Insider 4/6/26: Ruben Gallego says he now opposes funding for offensive weapons for Israel, backs Iron Dome [“Gallego missed Senate votes in July to block arms shipments to Israel, but a spokesperson said he would have voted against the Bernie Sanders-led resolutions“]
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/6/26: Special rules for pro‑Israel Democrats? [“AIPAC is one of the last groups in Washington that still brings Democrats and Republicans together, bucking the trend of polarization that defines contemporary politics.“
• New York Post 4/5/26: Democrats’ new AIPAC obsession shows exactly why it’s needed
• YNet 4/4/26: From automatic support to political risk: Israel is now a burden for Democratic Party candidates [“Less than three year to US presidential elections and just a few months before the midterms, almost all Democratic leaders are making clear their aversion to Israel and openly talking about breaking away from it – and are saying  things about Israel that were once unimaginable“]
• Jewish Insider 4/3/26: Ro Khanna says he’ll reject Iron Dome funding, joining AOC [“The two Democratic lawmakers’ pivoting on Iron Dome funding indicate how left-wing members are racing to adopt maximalist anti-Israel positions“]
• Times of Israel 4/3/26: AOC’s absurd red line: Not even defensive aid for Israel

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]

• The Guardian 4/8/26: Why do elite Democrats fear Hasan Piker?
• Aaron Regunberg (Substack) 4/8/26: Why is everyone talking about Hasan Piker? [“The centrist group Third Way accuses the popular progressive streamer of being a ‘Jew-hater.’ After looking at his record and speaking with him myself, it’s clear he’s nothing of the sort.”]
• Politix Podcast 4/8/26: The Hasan Of All Fears
• i-d-dot-co 4/8/26: A Socialist Saviour, Streaming to You Live
• Washington Examiner 4/8/26: Democrats’ shameful mainstreaming of Hasan Piker
• Mondoweiss 4/7/26: The Democratic Party debate over Hasan Piker is really a fight over Palestine’s new place in U.S. politics [“The moral panic over Hasan Piker’s involvement with the Democratic Party is really about Palestine’s growing influence in U.S. politics. While Israel supporters might want to ban him and Palestine from the discourse, they’ve already lost the fight.“]
• The Hill 4/7/26: Hasan Piker is a moron, but don’t cancel him — criticize him!  
• Newsday 4/7/26: Hasan Piker is a bright, clear red line for Democrats
• Washington Examiner 4/6/26: Khanna’s comparison of Hasan Piker and Joe Rogan is ‘pathetic’: Joe Concha
• UnHerd 4/6/26: Democrats have a Hasan Piker problem
• The Bulwark 4/6/26: Why Democrats Should Shun Hasan Piker
• Huffington Post 4/5/26: Democrats Clash Over Whether To Meet With Controversial Streamer [“In recent weeks, Hasan Piker’s involvement with the Democratic Party has come under attack.“]
• The Hill 4/5/26: Khanna: Those saying ‘don’t engage’ with personalities like Hasan Piker ‘will cost us future elections’
• The Nation 4/3/26: Hasan Piker Threatens the Establishment. That’s Why They Want to Destroy Him. [“Critics are leveling baseless charges of antisemitism and bigotry at the mega-streamer. But they’re really scared of the challenge he poses to their power.”]
• Puck 4/3/26: The Hasan Piker Paradox [“In a media economy increasingly oriented around fandoms rather than scale, the controversial leftist Twitch commentator may offer a model for slumping TV news brands in desperate need of adrenaline.“]
• The Hill 4/3/26: Hasan Piker causes Democrat infighting over how the party should deal with him | WHOLE HOG POLITICS
• MS Now 4/1/26: Hasan Piker is a distraction for Democrats — and a potential liability [“The hugely popular gaming livestreamer and far-left political commentator has a voluminous history of making antisemitic, misogynistic and downright offensive statements.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

• The Free Press 4/10/26: This Week in Jew Hate: The Two Faces of Abdul El-Sayed
• Washington Free Beacon 4/9/26: El-Sayed Campaigns With UMich Board of Regents Candidate Who Shared Since-Deleted Posts Praising Hezbollah and Iranian Regime [“Amir Makled, who introduced El-Sayed at an event with Hasan Piker, represented Michigan students who faced criminal charges related to the school’s anti-Israel encampment“]
• The Hill 4/9/26: Abdul El-Sayed buddies up to Hasan Piker, avoids Israel question 
• Associated Press 4/9/26: What one campaign rally in Michigan reveals about young voters ahead of the midterm elections [“Dingell [Rep. Dingell (D-MI)] has often served as an early warning system for her party, cautioning that Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump was on track to win Michigan in 2016 and 2024. Now she was once again scoping out the shifting political landscape, and something caught her eye. ‘Quite frankly, I haven’t seen that many people outside an event yet this year,’ said Dingell, whose district includes Ann Arbor and who said her attendance wasn’t an endorsement.“]
• The Intercept 4/9/26: The Democrats Don’t Know Who They’ll Be in 2028. Michigan May Offer an Answer. [“The outrage over Abdul El-Sayed’s appearance with Hasan Piker reveals a schism that runs deeper than his Senate primary race against Mallory McMorrow.“]
• Just the News 4/9/26: Michigan Senate candidate’s online ally blows open internal Dem divide on Israel
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 4/8/26: In rallies taking on Israel, a defiant Hasan Piker boosts Michigan Senate candidate Abdul el-Sayed
• Lansing State Journal 4/8/26: Abdul El-Sayed, Hasan Piker target critics, Iran war at Michigan events
• Jewish Insider 4/8/26: Abdul El-Sayed, on Temple Israel terrorist: ‘Hurt people do hurt people’ [“The Michigan Senate candidate made the comments alongside antisemitic streamer Hasan Piker, when asked about the synagogue attack last month“]
• The State News 4/8/26: El-Sayed, Hasan Piker rebuke ‘platform police’ in MSU rally
• Fox News 4/8/26: Michigan Democrat grilled over rally with anti-Israel streamer who claims ‘America deserved 9/11’
• Michigan Public Radio/AP 4/8/26: How big of a tent do Democrats want? Hasan Piker is testing the limits in Michigan’s Senate primary
• The State News 4/7/26: Hasan Piker a major draw for El-Sayed rally, students say
• The Bridge 4/7/26: Abdul El-Sayed courts college voters, controversy in Michigan Senate stop
• WSOC-TV 4/7/26: How big of a tent do Democrats want? Hasan Piker is testing the limits in Michigan’s Senate primary
• Detroit News 4/7/26: Listen to Abdul El-Sayed, Hasan Piker, Rashida Tlaib and Summer Lee at Ann Arbor rally
• Detroit News 4/7/26: Abdul El-Sayed, Hasan Piker target critics, Iran war at Michigan events
• WLNS 4/7/26: At MSU, Abdul El-Sayed bets Hasan Piker can help bring the online left into the tent
• New York Post 4/7/26: Michigan Dem candidate defends Hasan Piker ties — but distances himself from streamer’s repulsive comments
• Daily Gazette 4/7/26: Senate candidate Abdul El-Sayed, political commentator Hasan Piker target critics, Iran war at Michigan events
• Michigan Advance 4/7/26: Critics condemn, students show up for Abdul El-Sayed and Hasan Piker
• The State News 4/7/26: Abdul El-Sayed denounces Iran War, calls for abolishing ICE in campus rally
• Washington Free Beacon 4/8/26: Michigan’s El-Sayed, Campaigning Alongside Anti-American Streamer Hasan Piker, Suggests US Lawmakers Only Support ‘Genocidal’ Iran War Because of AIPAC
• Jewish Insider 4/8/26: Abdul El-Sayed emphasizes anti-Israel rhetoric at rallies with antisemitic streamer Hasan Piker
• Politico 4/7/26: Michigan Senate candidate El-Sayed declines to disavow Hasan Piker’s past comments
• The Hill 4/6/26: Hasan Piker controversy heats up Michigan Senate primary for Democrats
• The Forward 4/6/26: Michigan Democrats, Jewish leaders uneasy over Senate candidate’s alliance with Hasan Piker [“Abdul El-Sayed is set to hold two rallies with the leftist streamer who has been accused of antisemitism”]
• The Guardian 4/6/26: Arab Americans in Michigan warn centrist Democrats attacking Hasan Piker: ‘They haven’t learned from 2024’

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

• Jewish Insider 4/10/26: Anti-Israel groups organize behind Gaza doctor in N.J. House primary [“Adam Hamawy has been endorsed by CAIR, Justice Democrats and a new group affiliated with the Institute of Middle East Understanding“]
• New Jersey Monitor 4/9/26: Joe Hathaway, Analilia Mejia stump in final week of special House election [“Hathaway lobbed his claims of antisemitism directly at Mejia during their only debate last week, noting that she has indicated she believes Israel has committed genocide in Gaza. Mejia has said her criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza should not be conflated with antisemitism, and she has pledged to “protect the rights of Jewish constituents.”]
• Jewish Insider 4/6/26: Tina Shah pitches staunch Israel support in bid to flip NJ-07  [“The ER physician and former government official is making support for Israel and outreach to Jewish voters central to her bid to unseat Rep. Tom Kean Jr.“]
• Jewish Insider 4/3/26: Analilia Mejia on defensive over Israel record in NJ-11 debate with Republican Joe Hathaway [“The only debate in the race — held during Passover — came as Jewish voters are up for grabs in the special election“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

• Jewish Insider 4/10/26: In latest flip flop, Michael Blake says he’ll oppose missile defense aid for Israel [“Blake, challenging Rep. Ritchie Torres in the Democratic primary, had said just months ago that he would support Iron Dome funding“]
• Jewish Insider 4/10/26: Brad Lander declines to say whether he still supports missile-defense funding for Israel [“Lander supported Iron Dome funding when running for mayor, but as he vies for far-left support in primary against Rep. Dan Goldman, he’s now declining comment“]
• Bronx News 4/8/26: Michael Blake and Jose Vega debate housing, immigration and Israel in NY-15 race.
• The Algemeiner 4/7/26: Congressional Hopeful Michael Blake Seeks to Erase AIPAC Support, Misleads on Past Trips to Israel
• Jewish News Syndicate 4/6/26: Dan Goldman outraises Brad Lander by three times in first quarter

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

• Chicago Tribune 4/9/26:  US Rep. Delia Ramirez: Why Democratic voters reject AIPAC, super PACs and billionaire control of our politics

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Illinois

• Jewish News Syndicate 4/7/26: Christian, Jewish leaders slam antisemitic staffers for campaigns challenging Graham in SC GOP primary

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

• Jewish Insider 4/10/26: New John Cornyn ad hits Ken Paxton over ties to Tucker Carlson [“A new ad by Sen. John Cornyn’s (R-TX) reelection campaign will hit his runoff primary opponent, Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, over his ties to far-right commentator Tucker Carlson, pointing to Carlson’s criticisms of President Donald Trump, while also honing in on his attacks against Trump’s support for Israel and the war in Iran.“]
• El Paso Times 4/9/26: James Talarico’s Texas primary win linked to Israel criticism
• IMEU 4/6/26: New Poll: Talarico Boosted By 4:1 Margin Over Crockett By Comments Criticizing Israel
• Jewish Insider 4/7/26: Texas Dems to consider resolutions on Israel arms embargo, blasting pro-Israel groups [“Activists will consider close to 20 resolutions — some of which condemn AIPAC and DMFI — introduced by seven individuals at a party convention in June”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia

•  NBC News 4/7/26: Republican Clay Fuller wins Georgia special election for Marjorie Taylor Greene’s old seat in Congress [“…at a Cobb County Republican Party candidate forum, candidate Reagan Box accused Fuller of taking money from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, or AIPAC. ‘AIPAC is not a foreign organization. I’m happy to have their support,’ Fuller said…”
• Jewish Insider 4/7/26: Special election for MTG seat early test for GOP base [“What makes the otherwise sleepy contest significant is the potential for the results to indicate if there are any fissures within the MAGA coalition that may represent discontent with Trump’s hawkish turn amid the Iran war“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – California

• Jewish Insider 4/7/26: DMFI launches first 2026 ad, hitting California Democrat Ammar Campa-Najjar

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

• Philadelphia Today 4/8/26: Accusations Fly as AIPAC Becomes Issue in Philly Congressional Race [“Ala Stanford and Chris Rabb trade barbs over pro-Israel group’s role in primary“]
• The Center Square 4/7/26: Pa. Jewish lawmakers ‘deeply alarmed’ that Summer Lee will appear with Hasan Piker
• The Inquirer 4/7/26: Ala Stanford and Chris Rabb are trading accusations as AIPAC becomes a flashpoint in Philly’s U.S. House race

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland

• Montgomery Perspective 4/10/26: On MoCo, Israel and the Palestinians, Part Three
• Montgomery Perspective 4/9/26: On MoCo, Israel and the Palestinians, Part Two: Josie Caballero
• Montgomery Perspective 4/6/26: On MoCo, Israel and the Palestinians, Part One

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Colorado

• Daily Mail 4/9/26: Glamorous Gen Z barista-turned-socialist gives longtime Democrat opponent run for her money in Denver congressional seat [“Her key positions include the Bernie Sanders-backed Medicare For All, universal childcare and an arms embargo toward Israel. She was even fired from a law firm after writing a blog post that questioned the state of Israel’s legitimacy and criticizing a letter her firm wrote condemning antisemitism. Kiros’ anti-Israel rhetoric has continued in her campaign, where she drew heat for sharing a video on social media claiming that Democrats ‘fellate Israel.’ She defended herself by saying she doesn’t endorse the language used.“]
• Daily Camera 4/8/26: Colorado advocacy group says Sen. Michael Bennet backed out of governor forum to avoid Gaza questions

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

• Jewish Insider 4/8/26: Hawkish Republican senators standing behind Trump’s ceasefire deal with Iran [“Sen. Lindsey Graham: ‘I look forward to the architects of this proposal, the Vice President and others, coming forward to Congress and explaining how a negotiated deal meets our national security objectives’“]
• Jewish Insider 4/7/26: Top Democrats blast Trump for threat to destroy Iranian civilization [“At least 50 House Democrats are calling for Trump’s immediate removal from office“]

Other Stuff

• The College Fix 4/8/26: House committee report details ‘rise of radical antisemitism on college campuses’ 
• Mother Jones 4/3/26: Republican Islamophobia Has Reached Shocking New Levels [“The party’s leaders in Congress have done almost nothing to stop it.“]

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:

• 4/3/26: Israel’s Death Penalty law – the evolution of apartheid, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with Palestinian human rights lawyer Sawsan Zaher

—————————-

1. Bills & Resolutions

(STANDING WITH PEOPLE OF LEBANON) H. Res. 1146 [resolution text]: Introduced 3/27/26 by Tlaib (D-MI), “Standing with the People of Lebanon Against the Illegal Invasion, War Crimes, and Ethnic Cleansing Perpetrated by the State of Israel.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on the Judiciary. Also see: press release – “Standing with the People of Lebanon against the U.S.-backed Israeli Invasion,” which includes a long list of organizations endorsing the resolution.

(LEBANON WAR POWER RESOLUTION) H. Con. Res. 83 [resolution text]: Introduced 3/27/26 by Tlaib (D-MI) and cosponsored by Valzquez (D-NY) and Ramirez (D-IL), the “Lebanon War Powers Resolution,” aka, “Directing the President, pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution, to remove the United States Armed Forces from hostilities in Lebanon that have not been authorized by Congress.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see:

• press release – “Standing with the People of Lebanon against the U.S.-backed Israeli Invasion,” which includes a long list of organizations endorsing the resolution.
• Jewish Insider 3/30/26: Tlaib, Ramirez legislation aims to block U.S. assistance to Israel’s operations against Hezbollah

(WHAT THE MIDDLE EAST NEEDS NOW IS MORE US-ENFORCED NORMALIZATION WITH ISRAEL!) S. 4219 [bill text]: Introduced 3/26/26 by Budd (R-NC) and Ernst (R-IA), “A bill to require the Secretary of Defense to establish an initiative to bolster defense cooperation with Abraham Accords countries, and for other purposes,” aka the, “Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Act of 2026.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Also see: press release – “Budd, Ernst Lead Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Act to Deter Iranian Aggression Across the Middle East.” As summarized in the press release, the bill: “Requires the Secretary of Defense to establish an initiative to bolster defense cooperation with Abraham Accords countries” and “Requires the Secretary of Defense to prioritize deterring aggression by Iran and its proxies while also enhancing regional planning and cooperation among Abraham Accords countries, including: Counter-unmanned aircraft system capabilities, ground-based air defense, special operations force development, and joint air or naval military exercises, among other appropriate military capabilities as directed by the Secretary” and “Requires the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to the Senate Armed Services Committee, setting forth a strategy for achieving these objectives and a budget request for carrying out this initiative.” Also see: Ernst press release 4/2/26: Ernst, Budd Lead Legislation to Deter Iranian Aggression; Senate Republicans Introduce Bill Boosting Defense Cooperation Between Abraham Accords Members (Free Beacon 3/26/26)

(DISAPPROVAL OF US ARMS SALES TO UAE) S. J. Res. 158: Introduced 3/26/26 by Van Hollen (D-MD), and cosponsored by Sanders (I-VT) and Welch (D-VT), “A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sales to the Government of the United Arab Emirates of certain defense articles and services.” Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means.

(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. Per Self’s press release, the bill “amends the Internal Revenue Code to revoke tax-exempt status for organizations described under sections 501(c)(3) and 501(c)(4) if they receive any contribution or gift from an individual who is a citizen or national of a foreign adversary. The bill defines foreign adversaries to include the People’s Republic of China, Cuba, Iran, North Korea, and Russia, and allows the Secretary, in consultation with the Secretary of State, to designate additional countries when it is in the national security interest of the United States.” Text is not yet online, so it remains to be seen if the bill’s sanctions apply to U.S. citizens who are dual nationals of any nation designated a “foreign adversary” under this legislation.

(NOT SURE WHAT THIS IS – WORTH KEEPING AN EYE ON) HR 8168:  Introduced 3/30/26 by Van Epps (R-TN), “To require an assessment of terrorism threats to the United States posed by foreign terrorist organizations and Specially Designated Global Terrorists present in countries that are major non-NATO allies, and for other purposes.”  Referred to the House Committee on Homeland Security. No text is available as of this writing, and as of this writing Van Epps has not issued any press release or posted on social media about the bill.

Media related to other legislation:

• Min (D-CA) press release 4/2/26: Rep. Min on Co-Sponsoring H.R. 3565, the Block the Bombs Act

2. Letters

• (IRAN WAR-RELATED INSIDER TRADING) 4/2/26: Warner, Schiff Call for Investigation Into Misuse of Insider Information [letter text]
• (IRAN WAR-RELATED ATTEMPTED INSIDER TRADING) 4/2/26: Merkley, Warren, Blumenthal, Duckworth, Peters, Press Hegseth on Reported Attempts to Make Investments in Defense Firms Ahead of Iran War; Slam Potential Conflict of Interest, Violations of Federal Ethics Agreement [letter text]
• (PROPER CARE FOR AMERICANS INJURED IN IRAN WAR) 3/31/26: Wisconsin Servicemembers Report Not Receiving Adequate Care After Being Injured in Iran War [letter text]
• (CONCERN FOR US GERALD FORD CARRIER STRIKE GROUP) 3/31/26: Bell, Courtney, Garamendi Call on the Department of Defense to Take Measures to Protect Well-Being of USS Gerald R. Ford Carrier Strike Group [letter text]
• (INVESTIGATE US BOMBING OF IRAN SCHOOL) 3/30/26: Warnock [+24 Senate colleagues] Calls for Bipartisan Investigation into Deadly Bombing of Iranian Elementary School [letter text]
• (CLAMP DOWN ON INSIDER TRADING USING PREDICATIVE MARKETS) 3/30/26: Warren, 40+ Lawmakers Push Regulators to Address Illegal Insider Trading in Prediction Markets [letter text]
• (PUBLIC HEARING ON IRAN!) 3/27/26: House Armed Services Committe Democrats Call for Public Hearing on Iran War [letter text]

3. Hearings & Markups

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.

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

NOTE: Last week Jewish Insider published SIX articles about/feeding controversy over some Democrats’ relationships with Hasan Piker: Third Way calls out Abdul El-Sayed’s embrace of Hasan Piker (3/24/26); Rep. Brad Schneider, New Dems chair, urges Democrats to disavow Hasan Piker (3/24/26); Elissa Slotkin, Haley Stevens criticize El-Sayed over rallies with Hasan Piker (3/25/26); McMorrow slams El-Sayed for campaigning with Hasan Piker, compares Piker to Nick Fuentes (3/26/26); Hasan Piker becomes flashpoint in Democratic infighting (3/26/26); Ted Deutch compares Hasan Piker to Nick Fuentes, says Dems should shun him (3/27/26). This week – which was a short week for Jewish Insider due to the Passover holiday, meaning it did not publish on Thursday or Friday) published an additional 2 articles about/feeding this controversy, alongside a surge of coverage of the topic by other outlets. Note that all of these articles follow-up on articles in a similar vein from Jewish Insider in December 2024 (The left’s answer to Joe Rogan has an antisemitism problem) and October 2024 (Popular leftist Twitch streamer Hasan Piker steps up antisemitic, anti-Israel rhetoric). Also note: additional Hasan Piker-related stories are included under specific state headings, below this section.

• The Nation 4/3/26: Hasan Piker Threatens the Establishment. That’s Why They Want to Destroy Him. [“Critics are leveling baseless charges of antisemitism and bigotry at the mega-streamer. But they’re really scared of the challenge he poses to their power.“]
• Jacobin 4/2/26: Dems Claim to Want a Hasan Piker — Then Try to Cancel Him
• The New Republic 4/2/26: Hasan Piker Has a Few Choice Words for His Bad-Faith Centrist Critics [“The group Third Way accuses the popular progressive streamer of being a ‘Jew-hater.’ His record, and an interview with TNR, prove he’s the opposite of an antisemite.”]
• Fox News 4/1/26: Who is Hasan Piker? Meet the far-left streamer who is stirring up controversy online and dividing Democrats
• Jewish Insider 3/30/26: The Hasan Piker mirage: When social media extremism meets political reality
• Zeteo 3/29/26: The Campaign Against Hasan Piker Is About Crushing the Left [“Centrist groups like Third Way are trying to cancel the popular progressive streamer as part of their campaign to ‘reduce far-left influence and infrastructure.’ Why are top Democrats joining in?“]
• Politico 3/28/26: Dems’ Piker pickle [“‘One of the quotes that they love floating around is the Oct. 7 quote where I said, like, rape’s happening, like the conversation around, like, sexual violence taking place on Oct. 7 doesn’t change the dynamic for me. And I was talking about genocide. I was like, this doesn’t justify genocide at all,’ Piker said.“]
• Politico 3/28/26: Why some Democrats want to shut off Hasan Piker’s ‘megaphone’
• Wall Street Journal 3/19/26: Jonathan Cowan and Lily Cohen: Democrats Are Too Cozy With Hasan Piker

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

• American Prospect 4/3/26: Democratic Leaders Shift Away From Israel [“Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez’s announcement that she will not vote for any Israeli military aid is part of an emerging trend”]
• Washington Post 4/3/26: Op-ed by AEI fellow – ‘Israel made us do it’: The Democratic Party has taken a turn
• Zeteo 4/2/26: Shouldn’t Democrats Be Able to Condemn Genocide? [“Instead of acknowledging Israel’s genocide in Gaza, Dem politicians Mallory McMorrow and Andy Beshear complain about ‘purity tests’ and ‘litmus tests.’“]
• Mondoweiss 4/2/26: The Shift: The Democratic Party battle over AIPAC heats up
• Religion Unplugged 4/2/26: Democrats To Weigh Condemning AIPAC, Fueling ‘Antisemitism Concerns’
• Chicago Tribune 4/2/26: Jesse Jackson Jr., et al.: Black and Jewish liberation in the aftermath of an election defined by AIPAC
• City & State 4/1/26: At DSA forum, AOC pledges not to vote for any military aid to Israel [“Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez previously said she supported sending ‘defensive’ arms to Israel, which had led some DSA members to oppose endorsing her for reelection.”] Also see: Jewish Insider 4/1/26: Report: AOC says she’ll reject defensive funding for Israel, IHRA definition of antisemitism [“‘I have not once ever voted to authorize funding to Israel, and I will never,’ Ocasio-Cortez said during a Democratic Socialists of America endorsement call, according to an editor from City & State New York“]; New York Times 4/1/26: Ocasio-Cortez Says She Will Oppose All U.S. Military Aid to Israel [“Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez of New York said she would oppose U.S. military aid to Israel, including for defensive systems.”]; New York Magazine 4/1/26: Will AOC’s Vow to Oppose Israel Military Aid Set a Standard?; NBC News 4/1/26: Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez says she will now oppose all U.S. military aid to Israel [“The shift in position puts the New York congresswoman on a course that sets her apart from other potential 2028 White House contenders.”];
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 4/1/26: Democrats to weigh resolution condemning AIPAC, fueling concerns about ‘undercurrent of antisemitism’ [“The DNC resolution comes as rejecting the pro-Israel lobbying group’s support has become a defining issue in Democratic races.”]
• Jewish Currents 3/31/26: Democratic Presidential Contenders Are Turning on Israel. Will They Convince Progressives? [“As the 2028 primaries approach, Ro Khanna and other Democratic hopefuls are looking to appeal to a base that’s grown more critical of Israel.”]
• The Bulwark 3/31/26: Track AIPAC’s Methodology Is Just Vibes [“Critics of Israel are lumped together with its strongest allies if ‘Track AIPAC’ doesn’t like them enough.“]
• The Nation 3/30/26: I Was AIPAC’s Number 1 Target—and I Beat Them. Here’s How to Do It. [“During his primary campaign, Daniel Biss called out AIPAC repeatedly, through the press, paid advertising, and in living rooms and public places across the district. It worked.“]
• Jewish Insider 3/30/26: DNC committee to consider resolutions condemning AIPAC, Israel [“Democratic insiders expressed skepticism that the resolutions would pass as written, but called anti-AIPAC targeting within the party concerning“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

• Jewish Link (New Jersey) 4/1/26: NJ-11 Congressional Candidate Joe Hathaway Speaks in Livingston
• Jewish Standard/Times of Israel 4/1/26: Why this lifelong Democrat is endorsing Joe Hathaway for Congress
• New Jersey Globe 3/31/26: Ali seeks to make AIPAC an issue in NJ-8 campaign [“AIPAC is backing Menendez’s campaign, though Menendez says he’s made his disagreements with pro-Israel group clear”]
• Drop Site 3/30/26: Exclusive: Adam Hamawy, Saikat Chakrabarti Get Boost in House Bids with Justice Dems Endorsement

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

• JTA 3/31/26: NY candidate criticizes Israel on Hasan Piker’s show, sparking backlash in heavily Jewish swing district [“Effie Phillips-Staley, who hopes to face off against Rep. Mike Lawler, became a critic of Israel after visiting in February.“]
• Jewish Insider 3/30/26: Lagging in polling and fundraising, Lawler challenger hardens anti-Israel stance [“Effie Phillips-Staley is trying to find her niche in the Democratic primary by reaching out to the most anti-Israel elements in the swing district”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Missouri

• Yahoo News 4/2/26: Cori Bush’s 2026 Comeback Bid Signals A High-Stakes Return To Congress
• Politico 3/29/26: Cori Bush wants her seat back — and a rematch over AIPAC

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

• WFMD 4/2/26: Senate candidate ripped [by Republicans] over ‘word salad’ response to whether world is better off without ayatollah
• Third Way 4/1/26: Third Way Calls on Dr. Abdul El-Sayed To Say If He Aligns With Hasan Piker’s Anti-American and Antisemitic Views
• Jewish Insider 4/1/26: Mike Rogers confronts changing GOP attitudes on Israel on the campaign trail [“The Michigan Senate candidate said Republicans need to do more to counter the anti-Israel trend and rising antisemitism on the right“]
• Jewish Insider 3/31/26: In Michigan Senate primary, McMorrow balances Jewish fears and Arab outreach after attack
• Union Bulletin 3/31/26: Muslim group rips Slotkin over Bill Maher TV spot. Senator condemns hate
• Fox News 3/30/26: Internet erupts over ‘disqualifying’ leaked audio from Democrat in key Senate race discussing Khamenei’s death
• The Left Hook 3/30/26: Abdul El-Sayed on The Manufactured Smear Campaign Against Hasan Piker and Anti-Genocide Progressives
• Detroit Metro Times 3/30/26: Senate candidate McMorrow says voters don’t trust flip-flops as she waffles on key positions [“The Democratic frontrunner’s waffling on big positions like corporate donations, Israel’s war, and data centers are raising serious questions“]
• Washington Free Beacon 3/30/26: ‘There Are a Lot of People in Dearborn Who Are Sad’: Democratic Senate Hopeful Abdul El-Sayed Said He Needed To Stay Silent on Khamenei Killing Because Many of Michigan’s Muslim Voters ‘Are Sad’
• New York Times 3/27/26: Hasan Piker Rallies Spark Backlash in Michigan’s Democratic Senate Primary
• The State News 3/26/26: Jewish student group ‘deeply troubled’ by upcoming campus visit by Hasan Piker

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – California

• UnHerd 4/2/26: Race to replace Nancy Pelosi tests limits of liberal Zionism
• Sacramento Bee 4/2/26: Matsui, Vang clash over health care, campaign finance, Gaza in packed forum
• Drop Site 3/30/26: Exclusive: Adam Hamawy, Saikat Chakrabarti Get Boost in House Bids with Justice Dems Endorsement

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Ohio

• The Enquirer (Cincinnati) 4/3/26: Damon Lynch IV launches website calling Landsman ‘Genocide Greg’
• Cincinnati Today 4/3/26: Cincinnati Dem Challenger Accuses Incumbent of ‘Genocide’

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia

• Jewish Insider 4/1/26: Ossoff’s silence on Piker speaks loudly [Note: JI’s Daily Kickoff email for 4/1/26 featured the headline “Oss-off the record on Piker“, mirrored in the email version of the day’s email, with the addition of an emoji of a face with the mouth zippered shut]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Colorado

• Axios 4/2/26: Progressive challenger tests DeGette’s hold [“Whether the race draws more outside spending, including from groups like AIPAC and organizations tied to crypto and AI interests, which have poured millions into similar races.“]

Other Stuff

• Jewish Insider 3/31/26: Slotkin warns U.S. lacks funding to combat antisemitic extremism after Temple Israel attack

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:

• 3/25/26: How Gaza Broke the Art World, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor speaking with David Velasco, the former editor-in-chief of the art magazine Artforum.

—————————-

1. Bills & Resolutions

(STANDING WITH PEOPLE OF LEBANON) H. Res. XXX [resolution text]: On 3/27/26 Rep. Tlaib (D-MI) issued a press release – “Standing with the People of Lebanon against the U.S.-backed Israeli Invasion” announcing the introduction of a House resolution, “Standing with the People of Lebanon Against the Illegal Invasion, War Crimes, and Ethnic Cleansing Perpetrated by the State of Israel“, endorsed by a lonnnnngggg list of organizations.

(LEBANON WAR POWER RESOLUTION) H. Res. XXX [resolution text]: On 3/27/26 Rep. Tlaib (D-MI) issued a press release – “Standing with the People of Lebanon against the U.S.-backed Israeli Invasion” announcing the introduction of a the “Lebanon War Powers Resolution,” co-led by Valzquez (D-NY) and co-sponsored by Ramirez (D-IL) and endorsed by a lonnnnngggg list of organizations.

(REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 116: Introduced 3/5/26 by Murphy (D-CT) and now having 6 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. On 3/24/26, a Motion to discharge Senate Committee on Foreign Relations [which in the case is, in effect, a vote on the resolution itself] was rejected by a vote of 47-53, with all Republicans except for Paul (R-KY) voting “no,” and all Democrats and Independents voting yes, except for Fetterman (D-PA). Also see:

• Jewish Insider 3/24/26: Senate rejects Iran war powers effort for third time in a month [“The vote again fell largely along party lines, with only Sens. John Fetterman and Rand Paul defecting from their parties”]
• Jewish Insider 3/21/26: Rep. Greg Landsman now says he’ll vote for Iran war powers resolution, urges end to war [“The Ohio congressman had been one of four Democrats to oppose the previous resolution to halt the war in Iran“]
• IMEU policy memo 3/23/26: Senate Must Block More Bombs to Israel

(WHAT THE MIDDLE EAST NEEDS NOW IS MORE US-ENFORCED NORMALIZATION!) S. XXXX [bill text]: On 3/26/26 Sen. Budd (R-NC) issued a press release – “Budd, Ernst Lead Abraham Accords Defense Cooperation Act to Deter Iranian Aggression Across the Middle East“. As of 11am EDT on 3/27/26 the bill does not yet show up in the Congressional Record. As summarized in the press release, the bill: “Requires the Secretary of Defense to establish an initiative to bolster defense cooperation with Abraham Accords countries” and “Requires the Secretary of Defense to prioritize deterring aggression by Iran and its proxies while also enhancing regional planning and cooperation among Abraham Accords countries, including: Counter-unmanned aircraft system capabilities, ground-based air defense, special operations force development, and joint air or naval military exercises, among other appropriate military capabilities as directed by the Secretary” and “Requires the Secretary of Defense to submit a report to the Senate Armed Services Committee, setting forth a strategy for achieving these objectives and a budget request for carrying out this initiative.”

(LIFE IN PRISON & MORE FOR “TERRORISTS”) HR 8040: Introduced 3/24/26 by Biggs (R-SC), the “No Mercy for Terrorists Act“, aka “To amend title 18, United States Code, to increase the penalties for terrorists.“ Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. Press release – Biggs Introduces No Mercy for Terrorists Act: Never Again Should Terrorist Enablers Escape the Full Force of American Law. NOTE: This bill is included in the Round-Up because other bills of this ilk have erased the distinction between “material support for terrorism” and/or “membership” in a terrorist organization with politically disfavored political/ideological viewpoints and related activism – in effect deeming such views/activism as “aligned” with terrorism and therefore a form of material support — and additionally have sought to codify into law punishments against those merely charged or declared guilty of support for terror (as opposed to actually convicted). Indeed, Biggs’s press release notes that HR 8040 build on Biggs’s previously introduced legislation that, among other things, would revoke or deny U.S. passports to Americans who are merely charged with terrorism-related crimes (as opposed to CONVICTED of such crimes – meaning that Americans holding disfavored views who are outside the U.S. could effectively be permanently expatriated/exiled, without any due process). As of this writing the text of HR 8040 is not available, but given this growing conflation of disfavored First Amendment-protected speech/activity with terrorism, it is worth keeping an eye on…

Media related to other legislation:

• Jewish Insider 3/25/26: Lindsey Graham still aiming to pass Iran funding outside of partisan reconciliation bill
• Booker (D-NJ) 3/23/26: ICYMI: Booker Introduces Senate’s Second War Powers Resolution
• Sanders (I-VT) 3/21/26: X-post w/ video clip – “72,000 killed in the genocide in Gaza. 1 million+ displaced in Lebanon. 1,700 settler attacks in the West Bank. And now war in Iran. Sending 20,000+ more bombs to Netanyahu isn’t just immoral—it’s illegal. That’s why I introduced legislation to stop it.”

2. Letters

• [IRAN/RUSSIA OIL SANCTIONS] 3/27/26: Kaine & Gallego Lead Letter Pressing Trump Administration About Decision to Ease Sanctions on Russia and Iran [letter text]
• [BRIEF CONGRESS ON TASKFORCE TARGETING 10/7 PERPETRATORS & ALSO SUPPORTERS OF PALESTINIAN LIVES/RIGHTS] 3/26/26: Sen. Moran Leads Colleagues in Requesting Briefing on Joint Task Force to Hold Perpetrators of Oct. 7 Attack Accountable [letter text]. Also see: 14 Senate Republicans call for briefing on Oct. 7 federal task force (Jewish Insider 3/26/26)
• [TARGETING ACADEMIA/COLUMBIA – YET AGAIN] 3/26/26: Chairman Guthrie Writes to Columbia University Amid Concerns Over How the University is Combatting Antisemitism [letter text]. Also see: House Committee on Energy and Commerce announces antidiscrimination investigation into Columbia  [Columbia Spectator 3/26/26]
• [STOP DIVERTING DHS FROM ITS ACTUAL PURPOSE, INCL ANTI-TERROR] 3/25/26:  Crow: Trump Admin Wrong to Divert Anti-Terrorism, Human Trafficking, Resources to Immigration Enforcement [letter text – letter dated 3/20/26]
• [THREATENING MAYOR MAMDANI] 3/24/26: Chairman Cassidy Blasts Zohran Mamdani Using Taxpayer Dollars to Promote His Radical Left Agenda, Alienate Jewish New Yorkers [letter text]. Also see: Sen. Bill Cassidy warns Mamdani NYC public health funding at risk over anti-Israel working group [“The Health Committee chairman warned the mayor that his Department of Health may be violating Title VI of the Civil Rights Act”] (Jewish Insider 3/25/26)
• [INVESTIGATE PURCHASE OF ISRAELI CLUSTER BOMBS] 3/24/26: Rep. Sara Jacobs Leads Oversight Push of DoD’s $210 Million Purchase of Cluster Munitions from Israeli-Government Backed Company [letter text – letter dated 3/20/26]
• [STOP WEAPONIZING DEPT OF ED CIVIL RIGHTS INVESTIGATIONS] 3/23/26: Sen. Schiff Leads Push to Stop Department of Education’s Weaponization of Civil Rights Investigations  [letter text]
• [EXPLAIN EASING OF OIL SANCTIONS DUE TO IRAN WAR] 3/23/26: Meeks, Bacon Demand Bessent & Rubio Explain Easing of Russian Oil Sanctions [letter text]
• [RISKS IN TRUMP’S STRAITS OF HORMUZ POLITICAL RISK REINSURANCE PLAN] 3/23/36: Ranking Member Shaheen Presses DFC CEO for Answers on Risks to Taxpayer and Potential Benefits to China from $20 Billion Strait of Hormuz Maritime Insurance Proposal [letter text]
• [DEAR TRUMP ADMIN: STOP TARGETING MAHMOUD KHALIL) 3/20/26: Welch, Durbin, Raskin, Scanlon Press DHS, State Dept on Trump Admin’s Continued Targeting of Student Mahmoud Khalil’s First Amendment Rights [letter text]

3. Hearings & Markups

None.

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

• The Intercept 3/27/26: DNC Resolution to Reject AIPAC Funding Puts Democratic Leaders in the Hot Seat [“The symbolic resolution could force Democrats to take a stand on the millions the increasingly toxic AIPAC spends on Democratic primaries.”]
• The Sacramento Bee 3/27/26: Newsom’s backtracking suggests Democrats fear pro-Israel lobbyists, not voters
• Salon 3/27/26: It’s time for Democrats to face political reality on Israel
• Jewish Insider 3/27/26: Ted Deutch compares Hasan Piker to Nick Fuentes, says Dems should shun him
• The Intercept 3/26/26: How Does TrackAIPAC Actually Track AIPAC? [“The social media warriors have helped make AIPAC a politically toxic brand — and fueled debate over what it means to be ‘pro-Israel.’“]
• The Economist 3/26/26: America’s pro-Israel lobby is facing a backlash –  As attitudes to Israel shift, AIPAC is shifting its tactics
• The Guardian 3/26/26: Pro-Israel Democrats decry settler violence in West Bank amid attacks on Palestinians [“Aipac-backed lawmakers denounce ‘extremist’ violence in West Bank as support for Israel becomes a political liability“]
• Radio Judaica 3/26/26: L’AIPAC, le plus grand lobby pro israélien des Etats-Unis, est sous le feu des attaques.
• NOTUS 3/25/26: AIPAC Is Shaking Up Its Political Operation [“The pro-Israel organization is looking for a new general counsel and director of political operations, according to a confidential recruiting document obtained by NOTUS.”]
• The Jewish Exponent 3/25/26: Editorial: Illinois and the Limits of the Democratic Left
• Jewish Journal 3/25/26: Tough Calls Ahead [“Israel’s friends face a series of wrenching decisions in the months and years ahead: do we maintain our standards and support only those candidates who are unflinching Israel allies?”]
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 3/25/26: These pro-Palestine PACs are trying to beat AIPAC at its own game [“A super PAC called American Priorities says it will spend “at least $10 million” on this year’s midterm elections to counter the pro-Israel lobby’s spending.“] [NOTE: At some point on 3/25/26 JTA edited the headline to replace “Palestine” with “Palestinian” – I’ve left the headline as it was at the time I took it from the JTA website; and note that as of late 3/25/26 the original headline still shows in the URL – remains to be seen if they’ll remove/re-post the piece to hide the evidence that they dared to write the word “Palestine”]
• The Jewish Pittsburgh Chronicle 3/25/26: Chronicle poll results: Republican Party’s support for Israel [“We asked our readers if they think the Republican party’s center is turning away from supporting Israel. Here’s what they said.”]
• American Prospect 3/25/26: America, We Have a Super PAC Problem [“Since 2020, outside spending by a handful of super PACs has dominated Democratic primaries, whether the pro-Israel forces led by AIPAC or moneyed interests representing the crypto and artificial intelligence industries. These PACs, whose ads almost never have anything to do with the causes they support, have swamped mostly progressive candidates for the past several election cycles, though there are indications that their welcome is wearing thin.“]
• Jewish Insider 3/25/26: Politico’s AIPAC narrative misrepresents Democratic candidates’ views on Israel [“Ambitious Democrats are still trying to figure out a political message that manages to keep pro-Israel voters within their coalition while reacting to the dramatic shift in public opinion towards the Jewish state within their base“]
• The New Republic 3/25/26: Kat Abughazaleh on Losing, Mutual Aid, and What Comes Next [“The upstart candidate for the Illinois House fell short on election night, but she may have pioneered a new way of community-based campaigning.“]
• Breitbart 3/24/26: Many Democrat Presidential Contenders Shun AIPAC Donations
• The Daily Free Press (Boston Univ) 3/24/26: Rethinking the ballot in a bought system 
• Times of Israel 3/24/26: AIPAC pushes back after Democratic presidential hopefuls reject its support
• Chicago Business 3/24/26: Pritzker defends Michael Sacks’ support of AIPAC
• The Hill 3/24/26: Democrats grow wary of AIPAC’s role in elections
• Politico 3/24/26: 2028 Dem hopefuls scramble for distance from AIPAC [“Democrats eyeing White House bids are distancing themselves from the powerful pro-Israel group amid slumping support for Israel within the party’s base.“]
• Jewish Insider 3/24/26: Michael Sacks calls out ‘double standard’ of AIPAC criticism in Democratic Party [“The major Democratic donor said the outsized scrutiny of AIPAC’s political involvement is an effort to ‘chase Jews and their allies out of our big tent coalition’”]
• Jewish Insider 3/24/26: Rep. Brad Schneider, New Dems chair, urges Democrats to disavow Hasan Piker
• Jewish Insider 3/24/26: Former Rep. Jamaal Bowman finds work with Track AIPAC
• Jewish Insider 3/23/26: Progressive congressional staff meet with Columbia protest leader Mohsen Mahdawi [“The Trump administration has been working to deport Mahdawi over his alleged involvement in terrorist violence“]
• Washington Post 3/21/26: Super PAC spending passes $200M, with some groups hiding their cause [“Special interest groups, including the pro-Israel AIPAC, have sometimes veiled spending, using what appear to be unrelated organizations to support or attack candidates.“]
• Chicago Sun-Times 3/21/26: AIPAC has become a political liability for many seeking office

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Illinois

• Democratic Erosion Consortium 3/25/26: In Illinois, Donors Narrowed Democracy… Again
• The Daily Illini 3/24/26: Illinois primary was not just bought; Progressives made it possible
• Chicago Tribune 3/23/26: Daywatch: AIPAC funded secretive super PACs in primary, records show
• Chicago Tribune 3/23/26: AIPAC funded secretive super PACs that hid contributors and spent big in Democratic primary, new records show
• Evanston Roundtable 3/21/26: Filings confirm AIPAC funded millions in outside spending on congressional primary [“2 pop-up super PACs backed by American Israel Public Affairs Committee, individual donors spent over $7M on 9th District race“]
• Evanston Now 3/21/26: AIPAC-funded super PAC was behind ad blitz, records show
• Daily Northwestern 3/21/26: NU trustee donated $900K to AIPAC-backed super PAC that opposed Biss, filings show
• NBC News 3/20/26: AIPAC super PAC funded big-spending Illinois groups, as Democratic fights over Israel spread [“AIPAC-aligned super PACs, which didn’t reveal the source of their funds until after the races, spent millions in recent Chicago-area primaries.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Massachussetts

• The Newton Beacon 3/23/26: ‘A Youth Revolt’: Jason Poulos and the fight for the 4th Congressional District [“‘What really was radicalizing for me was watching the United States send tens of billions of dollars in military arms to Israel and watch them participate actively in the genocide of the Palestinian people’ Poulos said.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

• Jewish Insider 3/26/26: Michael Blake’s campaign home page features picture of him in Israel
• Jacobin 3/24/26: Brad Lander Is Demanding an AIPAC-Free Congressional Race
• City & State NY 3/24/26: Pro-Palestinian PAL PAC endorses Claire Valdez for Congress
• Jewish Insider 3/23/26: Ritchie Torres challenger Michael Blake flip-flops on BDS stance [“Blake now says he opposes efforts to target the anti-Israel Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement, after saying just months ago he opposed BDS”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

• Hudson County View 3/26/26: In CD-8 race, Ali calls on Menendez to follow Booker’s lead & reject AIPAC donations
• New Jersey Globe 3/26/26: Pro-Palestinian PAC, intended to counter AIPAC, endorses Hamawy in NJ-12
• New Jersey Globe 3/24/26: Hamawy endorsed by CAIR Action for NJ-12
• Jewish Insider 3/23/26: N.J. progressive Analilia Mejia will not face serious Dem opposition in primary

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Michigan

• Jewish Insider 3/26/26: McMorrow slams El-Sayed for campaigning with Hasan Piker, compares Piker to Nick Fuentes
• Jewish Insider 3/26/26: Hasan Piker becomes flashpoint in Democratic infighting
• Jewish Insider 3/25/26: Elissa Slotkin, Haley Stevens criticize El-Sayed over rallies with Hasan Piker
• Jewish Insider 3/24/26: Third Way calls out Abdul El-Sayed’s embrace of Hasan Piker
• Jewish Insider 3/24/26: Abdul El-Sayed calls statement on Temple Israel attack ‘a risk’

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

• Politico 3/22/26: They once called him a ‘goose-stepping extremist.’ They’re now sitting out his comeback bid. [“Brandon Herrera, the GOP nominee in Texas’ 23rd congressional district, won’t get help from pro-Israel and GOP Jewish groups. But they aren’t backing his Democratic opponent, either.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

• Jewish Insider 3/23/26: Graham Platner doubles down on anti-Israel rhetoric [“In an interview on CNN, Platner accused Israel of committing genocide and alleged that the Trump administration started the war to distract from the Epstein files“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia

• New York Times 3/23/26: Republicans privately fear this swing state Democrat [“Behind closed doors, Republicans have tamped down their hopes of unseating Jon Ossoff, a 39-year-old powerhouse fundraiser, as he seeks another term.”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

• Semaphor 3/24/26: Fetterman gets another potential Democratic challenger

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Ohio

• Mondoweiss 3/25/26: Insurgent campaign aims to oust Ohio Democratic incumbent Greg Landsman over unquestioning support for Israel [“Damon Lynch IV is vying to unseat AIPAC-favorite Greg Landsman in Ohio’s upcoming May 5 primary, aiming to make the race a referendum on the incumbent’s support for Israel. Recent trends in the Democratic Party suggest he might have a winning case.”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Colorado

• The Intercept 3/26/26: Sunrise Movement Pushes Anti-War Candidates, Endorsing Melat Kiros in Denver [“The youth-led Sunrise Movement is seizing on the U.S.–Israel war in Iran to boost challengers to sitting Democrats, joining a coalition of progressive groups arguing that lawmakers who take money from defense contractors and AIPAC cannot meaningfully oppose the war.”]

US/Israel War on Iran & Lebanon

• Jewish Insider 3/27/26: Signs of GOP friction over Iran war are slowly growing [“Sen. Lisa Murkowski said she’s concerned Trump will deploy ground troops while the Senate is on recess“]
• Jewish Insider 3/26/26: Leading House Republican says admin not providing enough information on Iran plans
• Jewish Insider 3/26/26: Some Senate Republicans say Iran war isn’t finished, contrary to Trump’s claims
• Jewish Insider 3/25/26: Senate Republicans express confidence, but say they haven’t heard plan for reopening Strait of Hormuz
• Jewish Insider 3/24/26: Sen. Richard Blumenthal decries ‘stupid’ decision to ease Iranian oil sanctions
• Jewish Insider 3/23/26: Chuck Schumer sidesteps whether degrading Iran’s military was a positive outcome

Islamophobia

• New York Times 3/22/26: Anti-Muslim Comments by G.O.P. Congressman Reflect a Rising Trend [“On Capitol Hill and in Nashville, comments by Representative Andy Ogles of Tennessee have sown division and underscored a growing tolerance on the right for Islamophobia.”]

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:

• 3/19/26: Sde Teiman & Permission to Rape, ft. FMEP fellow Peter Beinart in conversation with Sari Bashi, Executive Director of the Public Committee Against Torture in Israeli
• 3/17/26: The Gulf Countries and the American Security Umbrella – What Comes Next? ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with the Quincy Institute’s Annelle Sheline

—————————-

1. Bills & Resolutions

(DISAPPROVAL OF US ARMS SALES TO ISRAEL): on 3/19/26, Sanders (I-VT) and 3 Democratic cosponsors – Van Hollen (D-MD), Merkley (D-OR) and Welch (D-VT) – introduced 3 resolutions disapproving of arms sales to Israel, all of which were referred to the Foreign Relations Committee:

• S. J. Res. 136: A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed licensing of certain defense articles and services to Israel.
• S. J. Res. 137: A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Israel of certain defense articles and services.
• S. J. Res. 138: A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Israel of certain defense articles and services.

Also see:

• Sanders press release 3/19/26: Sanders Files Joint Resolutions of Disapproval to Block Nearly $660 Million in Bomb Sales to Israel
• Sanders (I-VT) X-post 3/19/26: “Given the horrific destruction that Israel’s extremist government has wrought on Gaza, Iran and Lebanon, the last thing in the world American taxpayers need to do right now is to provide 22,000 new bombs to the Netanyahu government. No more weapons to support an illegal war.“
• Politico 3/19/26: Bernie Sanders to force disapproval votes over U.S. arms sales to Israel.
• Jewish Insider 3/19/26: Bernie Sanders, progressives to force new votes on blocking arms sales to Israel

(REMOVE US FORCES FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 118: Introduced 3/5/26 by Booker (D-NJ) 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.” On 3/18/26, a motion to discharge S. J. Res. 118 from the Committee on Foreign Relations (to bring it to the floor for consideration – a procedural vote that in this case can be viewed as a vote on the underlying resolution) was defeated by a vote of 47-53, with all Republicans except for Paul (R-KY) voting “no,” and all Democrats except for Fetterman (D-PA) voting “yes.”

(IRAN SANCTIONS) HR 1422: Introduced 2/18/25 by Lawler (R-NY) and having 295 cosponsors, “To impose sanctions with respect to persons engaged in significant transactions related or incidental to the processing, refining, export, transfer or sale of oil, condensates, or other petroleum or petrochemical products in whole or in part from the Islamic Republic of Iran.” Brought to the House floor 3/16/26 under suspension of the rules and passed by a Voice Vote. Also see: AIPAC 3/16/26 X-post – “AIPAC applauds the House of Representatives for passing the bipartisan Enhanced Iran Sanctions Act (H.R. 1422) with broad support. As American servicemembers courageously operate alongside our ally Israel to confront the Iranian regime, Congress is making clear that we must toughen our economic tools against Iran and China’s purchases of Iranian oil. We thank @RepMikeLawler (R-NY) and @CongresswomanSC (D-FL) for leading this bipartisan effort and the 296 total House members who cosponsored the legislation. The House passing this bill reflects overwhelming bipartisan resolve to cut off the financial lifelines that fuel Iran’s aggression against American servicemembers, our allies, and U.S. interests. We urge the Senate to take up and pass this legislation as quickly as possible to ensure the United States maintains every available economic tool to counter the Iranian regime.”

(BANNING BETTING ON WAR/DEATHS/ETC) HR 7942 // S. 4035 [bill text]: Introduced in the House 3/16/26 by Levin (D-CA), and in the Senate 3/10/26 by Schiff (D-CA), “A bill to amend the Commodity Exchange Act to prohibit the listing of contracts relating to war, death, and similar activities.” Also see: Schiff press release – Sen. Schiff Introduces Legislation to Explicitly Ban Death and War Prediction Contracts

(BANNING PREDICTION MARKET BETTING ON WAR/ASSASSINATIONS ETC) HR 7955 // S. 4115 [bill text]: Introduced 3/17/26 in the House by Casar (D-TX) and 3 Democratic cosponsors, and in the Senate by Murphy (D-CT) and Hickenlooper (D-CO), the “‘Banning Event Trading on Sensitive Operations and Federal Functions Act” aka the “BETS OFF Act,” aka, “To prohibit any person from placing, accepting, or facilitating the placement or acceptance of a wager regarding a specified event, and for other purposes.” Referred to the House Committees on the Judiciary, Agriculture, and Financial Services; and to the Senate Committee on the Judiciary. Also see:

• Casar (D-TX) 3/17/26: X-post w/ video clip – “A single secret account made $500,000 off of betting precisely right when Trump would go to war with Iran. We have a corruption crisis in America, and new prediction markets are making it worse. Today, @ChrisMurphyCT and I introduced a bill to crack down on this corruption.”
• Murphy (D-CT) 3/17/26: X-post – “The day before the Iran War, a flurry of big prediction market bets were placed – likely from Trump staff – that the war would start the next day. That’s outrageous, and today @RepCasar and I introduced legislation to ban these corrupt prediction markets.“
• Murphy (D-CT) 3/16/26: X-post – “We need to end prediction markets for government action. NOW. This bone chilling story about a reporter’s life threatened bc he simply reported on Iran missile strikes: ‘After you make us lose $900,000 we will invest no less than that to finish you.‘” Commenting on Times of Israel article, Gamblers trying to win a bet on Polymarket are vowing to kill me if I don’t rewrite an Iran missile story [“Bettors are using death threats to try to get The Times of Israel’s military correspondent to change his report on a missile impact in central Israel. This is his alarming account“]

(STRIPPING US CITIZENSHIP FROM ANYONE FOR ALLEGED SUPPORT FOR AN FTO) HR 7958: Introduced 3/17/26 by Harrigan (R-NC), “To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to deem specified activities in support of terrorism as renunciation of United States nationality,” aka the “Expatriate Terrorist Act.”  Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. NOTE: 

• On 3/13/26 Cruz (R-TX) posted on X: “Yesterday’s terrorist attacks in Virginia and Michigan were both committed by Islamist radicals who were naturalized citizens. Terrorists and their supporters have no place in the United States, and denaturalizing and deporting them will save lives. Next week I’ll introduce a modernized version of my Expatriate Terrorist Act from 2017. I began pushing this policy during my first term in the Senate. It will enable the U.S. government to revoke the citizenship of foreigners who’ve committed or support terrorism.”  The referenced bill is S. 361, introduced by Cruz on 2/13/17. On 3/13/26, Harrigan (R-NC) re-posted Cruz’s post, adding: “I’m leading this charge in the House and I’m proud to be working alongside SenTedCruz to get it done. When you come to this country, earn citizenship, and then turn around and commit or support terrorism against the very people who welcomed you, you have forfeited your right to be here.”
• Back in 2014, when this bill was first introduced (S. 2779), the ACLU laid out its objections —  Specifically, the ACLU noted: “The bill would strip U.S. citizenship from Americans who have not been convicted of any crimes, but who are suspected of being involved with designated foreign terrorist organization.  S. 2779 is dangerous because it would attempt to dilute the rights and privileges of citizenship, one of the core principles of the Constitution.” The ACLU continues: “…the bill would treat suspected provision of material assistance as an act that affirmatively renounces one’s American citizenship. Thus, unlike treason or conspiracy to overthrow the U.S. government, this provision would not require a prior conviction. It would only require an administrative finding by an unspecified government official that an American is suspected of providing material assistance to a designated foreign terrorist organization with the intention of relinquishing his or her citizenship. This provision would violate Americans’ constitutional right to due process, including by depriving them of citizenship based on secret evidence, and without the right to a jury trial and accompanying protections enshrined in the Fifth and Sixth Amendments. In sum, the bill turns the whole notion of due process on its head. Government officials do not have the power to strip citizenship from American citizens who never renounced their citizenship and were never convicted of a crime. Second, the material assistance provision suffers from the same constitutional flaws that plague other material support laws, and goes far beyond what the Supreme Court has held is constitutionally permissible when First and Fourth Amendments rights are at stake…“
• As of this writing, text of the bill is not online, so it is not known what Cruz has done to “modernize” the bill. Given current political climate — in which viewpoints and activism are increasingly labeled or equated with terrorism and support for terrorism, and or accused of “aligning with” foreign terrorist organizations — it is fair to say that “modernizing” has an ominous ring to it.

(STRIPPING US CITIZENSHIP FROM ANY NATURALIZED CITIZEN FOR ALLEGED SUPPORT FOR TERROR) S.4105 [bill text]: Introduced 3/17/26 by Cotton (R-AR), “A bill to include any felony conviction as a ground for revocation of naturalization, to strike the 5-year limitation on the revocation of naturalization for membership in certain totalitarian or treasonous organizations, and to eliminate the 10-year statute of limitation for certain criminal penalties that would disqualify a person from naturalization.” Referred to the Committee on the Judiciary. Per Cotton’s press release, the bill would “Ensure any naturalized citizen who is a member or affiliated with a terrorist organization, at any point after receiving citizenship, is subject to having his or her citizenship revoked.”

(BARRING U.S. ENTRY TO PEOPLE FROM OR WHO HAVE LIVED IN TARGETED COUNTRIES) HR 7964: Introduced 3/17/26 by Ogles (R-TN) and 3 Republican cosponsors, the “Halt Immigration from Countries with Inadequate Verification Capabilities Act” (HICIVA),” aka,”To amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to prohibit the admission of aliens from certain countries where the United States cannot reliably verify the identities or backgrounds of individuals seeking entry, building upon the framework established by Presidential Proclamation 9645 and upheld by the Supreme Court in Trump v. Hawaii, 585 U.S. ___ (2018), and for other purposes.” No bill text is available as of this writing, but per Fox News, the bill, “targets Iran, Libya, North Korea, Syria, Venezuela and Yemen. The bill describes those countries as regions ‘where the government or prevailing conditions do not allow for reliable verification of the identities, backgrounds, or intentions’ for travelers looking to enter the U.S. The ban would also apply to individuals who have lived in the listed countries in the five years before the date of their attempted entry.” Referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. 

(PUTTING LIMITS ON DEPARTMENT OF WAR’S USE OF AI) S. 4113:  Introduced 3/17/26 by Slotkin (D-MI), “A bill to provide for limitations on the use of artificial intelligence by Department of Defense.” Referred to the Committee on Armed Services. Also see: press release – Slotkin Legislation Puts Common-sense Guardrails on DOD AI Use Around Lethal Force, Spying on Americans and Nuclear Weapons 

Media related to other legislation:

• Jewish Insider 3/20/26:  Democrats skeptical of proposed $200 billion in Iran war funding, raising questions about passage [“Democrats rejected the figure, while Republicans were open to a supplemental funding request but noncommittal on the $200 billion proposal“]
• Sherman (D-CA) 3/19/26: Congressman Sherman Will Soon Introduce Bill to Prevent Oil Company Windfalls During Iran War and Deliver Relief to American Families & Congressman Brad Sherman Will Soon Introduce Bill to Halt U.S. Oil Exports, Shield Americans from Price Spikes Amid Iran War
• Jewish Insider 3/18/26: Senate rejects effort to end Iran war for second time this month [“Democrats intend to continue bringing similar war powers resolutions up for votes in the near future, with five more already introduced“].
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/16/26: Bill calls for stripping citizenship from naturalized Americans who commit terrorism; also see Moore (R-WV)’s X-post 3/12/26: “This horrific pattern of naturalized citizens committing acts of terrorism against the American people must end. I will introduce a bill to denaturalize and deport any naturalized citizen who: – commits an act of terrorism – plots to commit an act of terrorism – joins a terrorist organization – or otherwise aides and abets terrorism against the American people.“

2. Letters

• [TARGETING ACADEMIA – THIS TIME: SAN JOSE STATE U] 3/20/26: Chairman Cassidy Sounds Alarm on Rampant Antisemitism at San Jose State, Demands Action to Protect Jewish Students [letter text]
• [AMERICANS STRANDED IN THE MIDDLE EAST] 3/19/26: Rep. Gillen Leads Colleagues Demanding Secretary Rubio Reverse Decision to Abandon Americans in Israel [letter text]. Also see: Lawmakers urge State Department to resume chartered evacuation flights from Israel (Jewish Insider 3/19/26)
• [CONCERNS RE: IRAN-RELATED NAVY US EXTENDED DEPLOYMENT] 3/19/26: Kaine Presses Navy on Extended Deployment of USS Gerald R. Ford [letter text]
• [INVESTIGATE KUSHNER PROFITING OFF U.S. MIDDLE EAST ROLE] 3/19/26: Ranking Members Robert Garcia and Ron Wyden Investigate Jared Kushner Raising Billions from Middle East Governments While Negotiating U.S. Foreign Policy [letter text]
• [DON’T GIVE KSA ACCESS TO NUCLEAR WEAPONS TECH]  3/18/26: Markey, Colleagues Demand Trump Administration Deny Saudi Arabia Access to Nuclear Weapons Technologies [letter text]
• [US PTO BEING USED TO COVER “BOARD OF PEACE” CORRUPTION] 3/18/26: On 3/18/26, House Judiciary Committee Ranking Member Raskin (D-MD) sent a 4-page letter to the director of the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office expressing concern that “recent filings suggest the USPTO is being used to hide the individuals and entities who exercise control over the billions of dollars foreign governments have been pouring into Donald Trump’s recently created ‘Board of Peace.’” [letter text]
• [AMERICANS STRANDED IN THE MIDDLE EAST] 3/17/26: Meeks, House HFAC Dems, Demand Answers from Rubio on Americans Stranded in Middle East War Zone [letter text – signed by all HFAC Democrats except for Sherman (D-CA)].
• [SEC OF WAR: CLARIFY CALL TO VIOLATE RULES OF WAR] 3/16/26: Kelly Demands Hegseth Clarify “No Quarters” Comment, Reaffirm Troops Have Duty to Refuse Illegal Orders [letter text]. Also see Kelly’s X-post – “Secretary Hegseth needs to explain exactly what he meant when he said “no quarter.” It’s well established that it means to take no prisoners — to kill them instead of accept their surrender. That is illegal under U.S. and international law, would put our servicemembers at greater risk, and erodes the good order and discipline of the best military in the world.“
• [ADMIN OFFICIALS MUST TESTIFY IN CONGRESS RE: IRAN WAR] 3/16/26: House Committee on Foreign Affairs Democrats Demand Testimony from Rubio, Hegseth, Witkoff and Kushner on Iran War [letter text]
• [NEED IMMEDIATE ANSWERS RE: US STRIKES IN IRAN, CIVILIAN CASUALTIES] 3/16/26: Rep. Scholten Demands Immediate Answers from Secretary Hegseth on U.S. Military Strikes in Iran, Civilian Casualties [letter text in press release]
• [DON’T FINANCE PUT WHILE RUSSIA IS AIDING IRAN AGAINST US] 3/16/26: Cortez Masto, Gallego, Colleagues Slam Trump Administration for Financing Putin While Russia Targets U.S. Service Members in Iran [letter text]
• [AI IN THE PENTAGON] 3/16/26: Warren Raises Questions About Pentagon Granting Classified Access to Elon Musk’s Grok AI, Sidestepping National Security Concerns [letter text]
• [FCC CHAIR MUST RESIGN OVER IRAN COVERAGE THREAT] 3/15/26: Markey Calls for FCC Chairman Carr to Resign Following Threats to Revoke Broadcast Licenses over Iran War Coverage [letter text]

3. Hearings & Markups

March 18, 2026: The Senate Select Committee on Intelligence held an OPEN hearing entitled, Worldwide Threats. Witnesses were: Director of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard (statement); CIA Director John L. Ratcliffe; FBI Director Kash Patel; Acting Commander, U.S. Cyber Command; Performing Duties of Director, National Security Agency/Chief, Central Security Service U.S. Cyber Command; NSA/CSS William J. Hartman; and DIA Director James H. Adams III.

March 18, 2026: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a closed/classified (TS/SCI) briefing, Update on the Current Situation in the Middle East. The briefers were Don Blome, senior official in the Department of State/Bureau of Intelligence and Research; and Steve Galpern, Acting Deputy Assistant Secretary of Analysis in the Department of State/Bureau of Intelligence and Research.

March 20, 2026: The House Appropriations Committee held a an Oversight Field Hearing – Accountability and Reform at the United Nations [hearing video]. The sole scheduled witness was U.S. Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations Michael Waltz. Also see: press release – Diaz-Balart Remarks at Oversight Field Hearing on Accountability and Reform at the United Nations

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

• Punchbowl News 3/20/26: Progressives say Biss win is an anti-AIPAC template
• Politico 3/20/26: Condemning AIPAC spending ahead of 2028
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/20/26: AIPAC a wedge issue facing Democrats in midterm races [“The pro-Israel group ‘has become increasingly problematic for many American Jews and for many candidates running for office,’ Lauren Strauss, of American University, told JNS.”]
• Bloomberg 3/20/26: The Anti-War Democrat Courting MAGA Voters
• Crain’s Chicago Business 3/19/26: Biss urges super-PAC reform after AIPAC blitz against him
• New York Times 3/19/26: What One Key Loss in Illinois Signals for Pro-Israel Lobby in Midterms [“…Mr. Casar, the congressman from Texas, said there was no greater evidence of AIPAC’s diminished standing than its decision not only to shroud its involvement in Illinois but to adopt the language of progressives to attack candidates from the left. ‘We’re just one cycle away from AIPAC running ads in favor of their candidates by saying that person rejects AIPAC,’ Mr. Casar said. ‘It shows just how toxic AIPAC has become to Democratic voters.’”]
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 3/19/26: JB Pritzker once sat on AIPAC’s national board. Now he says he wants nothing to do with it. [“Pritzker, Illinois’ Jewish governor, is the latest possible 2028 Democratic presidential candidate to pan the pro-Israel lobby.“]
• Semaphor 3/18/26: Why AIPAC shouldn’t get too excited about its Illinois primary strategy
• MS Now 3/18/26: What Democratic races in Illinois tell us about AIPAC’s influence — and how it’s perceived [“In the Democratic Party, a dwindling number of candidates want to be publicly associated with the country’s most prominent pro-Israel political organization.”]
• Politico 3/18/26: AIPAC faces calls to reassess strategy after split results in Illinois [“In its first midterms test, the powerful pro-Israel group backed two victors but failed to secure its preferred outcome in the two districts where it spent the most.“]
• Zeteo 3/18/26: ‘Stupid’ Trump Rolled Over For Netanyahu, Says Senator
• Legis1 3/17/26: AIPAC Is the Biggest Follow the Money PAC Story of 2026 — and It’s Getting Complicated
• Jewish Insider 3/17/26: Jonathan Greenblatt calls out Chris Van Hollen, Ro Khanna at ADL’s national conference
• NBC 3/16/26: Poll: Israel’s standing plummets among Democrats, fueling primaries on the left [“More registered voters view Israel negatively than positively in the latest NBC News poll, driven by change among independents and especially Democrats.“]
• Jewish Insider 3/16/26: American left, long in sync with Israel’s opposition, splits on Iran [“The divide was evident in an exchange between a centrist and top advisor to Yair Lapid and a foreign policy advisor to AOC and former confidante of Bernie Sanders (I-VT)”]
• Common Dreams 3/16/26: Poll Shows Double-Digit Drop in US Voter Support for Israel Since 2023 [“A new survey shows just 32% of US voters view Israel positively—down from 47% in 2023.“]
• CNN 3/15/26: As the politics around Israel shift, many Democrats are seeking distance from AIPAC
• The Forward 3/13/26: Amid revolt against ‘Israel lobby,’ J Street seeks elusive middle ground in primaries [“Unlike AIPAC, the progressive group funds Israel’s critics in Congress — but president Jeremy Ben-Ami is firm that candidates who don’t recognize Israel as the Jewish homeland won’t get his support“]
• Dallas News 3/13/26: Mavs owner Miriam Adelson dwarfs Texas sports rivals in political giving, pushes gambling [“Adelson’s federal and state campaign contributions, virtually all going to Republicans, place her among the most prolific political donors in America, according to a review by The Dallas Morning News of disclosure reports.“]
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/13/26: Jewish congressman posts audio of antisemitic death threat he says he received

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Illinois

• The Hill 3/19/26: Pritzker knocks AIPAC after pro-Israel group spent big in Illinois races
• Jerusalem Post 3/19/26: Jewish progressive prevails in closely watched Illinois primary, blasting AIPAC in victory speech
• The American Prospect 3/18/26: Special-Interest Super PACs Underperform in Illinois – Only two of four AIPAC-backed Democratic House candidates won, despite tens of millions in spending.
• WTTW 3/18/26: AIPAC Claims Credit for Miller, Bean Victories and Abughazaleh, Amiwala Defeats
• Washington Examiner 3/18/26: AIPAC and crypto money falls short in Illinois primary races
• National Review 3/18/26: AIPAC’s So-So Night in Illinois
• ABC7 Chicago 3/18/26: AIPAC gets split results for supported candidates in 2026 Illinois primary election
• In These Times 3/18/26: After a Torrent of Dark Money, AIPAC and Corporate Interests Flop in Illinois Elections
• Mondoweiss 3/18/26: AIPAC wins, and loses, big in heated Illinois democratic primaries [“AIPAC is taking a victory lap after 2 of the 4 candidates it backed in the Illinois primaries won their races. But is it really a resounding win if you have to spend $22 million to still lose 2 races?“]
• Zeteo 3/18/26: AIPAC Strikes Back [“Today, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), the US pro-Israel lobby, can drop $22 million into four congressional primaries, as it did in Illinois, presenting fake and misleading political arguments to voters, and cynically attacking disfavored candidates from the left, while choosing to talk exclusively about topics that have zero relation to the primary issue that AIPAC and its donors care about: Israel. AIPAC and its allies, through a series of anodyne-named super PACs, spent $22 million on four Illinois congressional primaries, and won two of them. And while AIPAC’s preferred candidate lost in Illinois’s 9th congressional district, the group still managed to block out the strongly pro-Palestine and Palestinian-American candidate Kat Abughazaleh. In its campaign against Abughazaleh, who wants to end weapons sales to Israel, an AIPAC-aligned super PAC ran ads saying she ‘supported Marco Rubio for president, said she was to the right of Donald Trump on Social Security, and her campaign is bankrolled by right-wing donors to Trump and Republicans. Who is the real Kat Abughazaleh? We don’t really know.’ Keep in mind: AIPAC is funded by right-wing Trump donors – and if Abughazaleh, a progressive influencer and former Zeteo contributor, thought any of those things today, or was taking right-wing donor money, AIPAC would not have spent money against her.”]
• Sludge 3/18/26: AIPAC Splits in Illinois Races After $20M in Spending
• Daily Herald (Chicago) 3/18/26: How AIPAC, crypto and a billionaire governor shaped the Illinois primaries
• New York Times 3/18/26: Stratton Wins and AIPAC’s Power Is Tested: 4 Illinois Takeaways [“Democratic voters put Lt. Gov. Juliana Stratton on a path to the Senate, while the pro-Israel lobby notched its first major victories of the year but also faced a tough defeat.”]
• Times of Israel 3/18/26: Jewish Netanyahu critic wins Illinois primary after AIPAC spends millions against him
• The Forward 3/18/26: Jewish progressive prevails in closely watched Illinois primary, blasting AIPAC in victory speech [“The pro-Israel lobby still claimed victory across the state by blocking further-left candidate”]
• Jewish Insider 3/18/26: AIPAC shows staying power in Illinois Democratic primaries [“Reports of the demise of AIPAC’s political clout in Democratic primaries, it turned out, were greatly exaggerated. Pro-Israel candidates who received backing from AIPAC or AIPAC-aligned groups won two of the four targeted Democratic primaries in Illinois — and helped block all the Squad-aligned far-left candidates from winning nominations in all of the races.  It was a respectable, if not dominant showing, but one consistent with making an impact with the $22 million pro-Israel groups spent in the four open congressional races.“]
• The New Republic 3/18/26: The Party of AOC or AIPAC? In Illinois, Neither Bloc Could Dominate [“AIPAC won two and lost two. Progressives took the biggest prize—the Senate nomination. But this battle is a long way from over.”]
• New York Times 3/18/26: Mixed Results for AIPAC and Allies in Illinois House Primaries [“Organizations linked to the pro-Israel lobbying organization had some victories and some less-than-ideal outcomes in closely watched Democratic contests.“]
• Newsweek 3/18/26: Illinois Democrats Just Delivered a Reality Check on AIPAC
• Newsweek 3/18/26: AIPAC Spent $12 Million Losing Illinois Primary Elections
• Axios 3/18/26: AIPAC finally notches some Democratic primary wins [“…AIPAC is trying to frame the results in the best possible light, praising Stratton’s victory, for instance, despite not spending heavily in support of her. AIPAC also tried to reframe several other races in its favor by celebrating the loss of movement leftist candidates like Abughazaleh to more mainstream progressives like Biss. The bottom line: Some progressives scoffed at that, with one senior House progressive stressing to Axios that ‘AIPAC wanted Daniel Biss to lose. They spent heavily against’ him. ‘It seems their spending harmed their candidate because it’s so toxic in this politically active district,’ the lawmaker added, noting Biss was endorsed by the Congressional Progressive Caucus. AIPAC’s use of progressive talking points to boost their candidates and sink others, this House Democrat said, just ‘shows that progressive messaging works.’“]
• Axios 3/18/26: The “Squad” left suffers complete wipeout in Illinois [“The left suffered a virtually total collapse in the Illinois Democratic congressional primaries on Tuesday night — even in races where the AIPAC-backed candidate lost. Why it matters: It’s a bad sign for the dozens of insurgent Democrats running in congressional races across the country, both in open seats and as primary rivals to older or more establishment-oriented incumbents.“]
• Punchbowl News 3/18/26: Stratton wins and AIPAC’s mixed bag
• Haaretz 3/18/26: AIPAC’s $21 Million Efforts in Illinois Help Defeat Israel Critics Amid National Democratic Scrutiny [“Despite attempts to reduce public scrutiny after anger over Malinowski’s primary and increased frustration over AIPAC’s influence on electoral politics and U.S.-Israel policy alike – AIPAC’s efforts at influencing the outcome of four House races were quickly brought to the forefront”]
• The Intercept 3/17/26: Illinois Results: Daniel Biss Beats Kat Abughazaleh in Blow to Left and AIPAC Alike [“Pro-Israel, AI, and crypto groups saw mixed results across Illinois as outside interests sought to snatch up open seats that favor Democrats.“]
• Fox News 3/17/26: AIPAC-backed Chicago Democrat loses primary despite outside spending blitz
• Politico 3/17/26: AIPAC attacks fall flat as Democrat Daniel Biss wins Illinois House primary
• Politico 3/17/26: AIPAC, AI money propels Melissa Bean to comeback victory in Illinois
• Punchbowl News 3/17/26: What does $21M get AIPAC in Illinois? [“More than $21 million. That’s what AIPAC and a cadre of affiliated groups have pumped into four open Illinois congressional races with the hopes of installing a slew of pro-Israel Democrats in safe blue seats. Tonight we’ll see just what that money bought.“]
• New York Times 3/17/26: In Illinois, AIPAC Becomes a Major Issue in Democratic House Races [“Several groups with ties to the pro-Israel group have spent at least $20 million in four primaries backing candidates who are likely to support their cause in Washington.“]
• Politico 3/17/26: AIPAC makes a $22 million gamble in Illinois [“The group has taken a sharp tactical shift in several House races as it weathers Democrats’ souring views of Israel — and of AIPAC itself.“]
• Times of Israel 3/17/26: What to know about the Illinois primaries, where AIPAC backs a fierce Israel critic [“In Tuesday’s crowded congressional primary elections, the pro-Israel lobby’s strategy often appears counterintuitive. Here’s why it might be part of a larger trend“]
• Huffington Post 3/17/26: The District AIPAC Couldn’t Conquer [“Of the roughly $20 million super PACs affiliated with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee have spent ahead of a quartet of Democratic congressional primaries in Illinois on Tuesday, the largest chunk has gone toward the state’s 9th District, one of the most heavily Jewish districts in the entire country.  It’s also the district where AIPAC’s preferred candidate is seen as having the least chance of winning. Two progressives whom AIPAC has spent millions of dollars opposing — Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss and journalist Kat Abughazaleh — are seen as the most likely victors, while the path to victory for State Sen. Laura Fine, whom AIPAC has backed, now relies on multiple left-wing candidates splitting their vote.”]
• American Prospect 3/17/26: Illinois Senate Primary Features Millions in Outside Spending, Too [“While the Democratic House primaries have gotten more attention, overlapping situational expenditures have boosted all three main contenders.”]
• Jerusalem Post 3/17/26: What to know about AIPAC’s boosting of a candidate who accused Israel of genocide
• The Hill 3/17/26: AIPAC Spends Millions in Democratic Primary As Party’s Support for Israel Falls
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/16/26: Anti-Israel Illinois congressional candidate scrubs call to remove Hamas from power from campaign website [“‘After our website was updated, portions of our policy platform were not accurately updated and do not reflect Kat’s views or the values of this campaign,’ Kat Abughazaleh’s campaign stated.”]
• Semafor 3/16/26: Illinois primaries showcase the rise of the bizarro-world super PAC
• Bloomberg 3/16/26: Pro-Israel, AI, Crypto Super-PACs Mob Illinois Democratic Races
• The Forward 3/16/26: Illinois primary pits Jewish candidate with deep Israel ties against AIPAC spending [“Daniel Biss speaks Hebrew and spent summers in Israel — but his quest for conditions on U.S. aid have made him a target, part of a larger campaign to keep moderates out of Congress”]
• The Guardian 3/16/26: Aipac: toxicity of pro-Israel Super Pac’s money to be tested in US primaries
• ABC News 3/16/26: In Illinois’ Democratic primaries, generational change and heavy spending take center stage
• Jewish Insider 3/16/26: In Illinois’ Democratic primaries, a test for the pro-Israel community [“Democrats will be choosing whether to nominate moderate-minded lawmakers, or elevate potential future members of the far-left Squad“]
• The Hill 3/16/26: Progressive gains in Illinois 9th District race challenge Israel lobby
• New York Times 3/15/26: Why a House Candidate in Illinois Is Attacking an Ad Praising Her [“In a Democratic primary, accusations are flying that allies of a hard-line pro-Israel group are trying to divide progressives, exploiting a broader rift in the party.”]
• NPR 3/15/26: A race for a safe blue seat tests how far left Democrats want new leaders to go
• Nerd Stash 3/15/26: Mark Ruffalo Blasts AIPAC Spending, Throws Support Behind Kat Abughazaleh in Illinois Race, ‘Genuinely the GOAT’
• Axios 3/13/26: AIPAC’s plan to sink progressives: Slam them from the left

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – California

• Jewish Insider 3/16/26: Ro Khanna facing new Democratic challenger hitting him from the political center [“Tech entrepreneur Ethan Agarwal: ‘He thinks being racist against Jewish people is going to help him win the American left. I don’t care if he’s right. I just think it’s unethical and immoral’”]
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/13/26: California Republicans strategize to limit antisemitic influence in key congressional race [“‘A person who is antisemitic has ingested poison, and the poison leads to irrational thinking,’ Elizabeth Barcohana, of the California GOP, told JNS.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

• Jewish Insider 3/18/26: Ritchie Torres challenger Michael Blake aligns himself with Joe Kent [“Blake, running on an anti-Israel platform, called Kent’s resignation letter ‘courageous and bold’ on social media“]
• Politico 3/16/26: Mike Lawler’s campaign is paying an activist [“Republican Rep. Mike Lawler’s campaign is quietly employing a political activist who criticized Democrats for traveling to Israel and benefiting from a ‘Jewish organized spending spree.‘“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

• New Jersey Globe 3/13/26: Pro-Way group’s ad blitz was funded by AIPAC donors [“80% of DLGA’s fundraising during NJ-11 special came from donors who have also given to pro-Israel groups“] NOTE: Illustrating what it looks like to conflate “AIPAC” with all Jewish people (conflation that, if committed by someone critical of AIPAC or Israel would spark howls of “ANTISEMITISM!!!!”) the Executive Editor of Jewish Insider commented on this article on X, “‘AIPAC donors’ are American citizens who have the same right as any other American citizen to donate to the candidates and PACs they feel best support their interests. It would have been easier for the NJ Globe to just write ‘Jews.'”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

• Floridian Press 3/16/26: Scott Singer Bashes Antisemitism, Suggesting Democrats to Blame

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

• The Forward 3/19/26: Can James Talarico’s faith-forward politics invigorate the Jewish religious left? [“The Texas Democrat brings the language of religion, and a sharp critique of Israel, to his battle for the Senate and against the Christian right“]
• Jewish Insider 3/19/26: Democrat sees chance to flip red seat in Texas race against Brandon Herrera
• Jewish Insider 3/18/26: Israel conspiracies threaten Democratic hopes in Texas runoff race

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Colorado

• Jewish Insider 3/19/26: Colorado far left mobilizes against John Hickenlooper, Diana DeGette [“Gonzales is a former member of the Democratic Socialists of America…she’s made criticism of Israel a centerpiece of her bid, accusing Israel of genocide, supporting an arms embargo and vowing, ‘I will never vote to send U.S. taxpayer dollars to Israel. Especially when communities here at home are being told there’s no money for schools or healthcare.’…Another lesser-known candidate in the Senate, University of Colorado Professor Karen Breslin, is, like Gonzales and Kiros, endorsed by the extreme anti-Israel group Track AIPAC…”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Arizona

• Political Wire/Politico 3/19/26: Another Democrat [Gallego, D-AZ] Distances Himself from AIPAC

US/Israel War on Iran & Lebanon

• Jewish News Syndicate 3/19/26: Tlaib accuses Israel of ‘ethnic cleansing’ in Lebanon [“The progressive Michigan lawmaker said she plans to introduce a House resolution ‘standing with the people of Lebanon.’“]
• The Guardian 3/18/26: Nancy Mace draws White House ire over independent Middle East rescue efforts
• Jewish Insider 3/18/26: Onetime Democratic critics elevate Joe Kent’s conspiratorial resignation letter [“Democrats previously slammed Kent as an untrustworthy extremist in opposing his nomination. Now, amid his anti-Israel accusations, some argue he has a point“]
• Jewish Insider 3/18/26: Tom Suozzi praises administration for elevating plight of his constituent detained in Iran
• Jewish Insider 3/17/26: Senate Republicans say Iranian official Ali Larijani’s killing could help pave way to regime change
• New York Times 3/13/26: War Stirs Mixed Feelings for the Only Iranian American Democrat in Congress

Islamophobia

• The Hill 3/17/26: Rise in anti-Muslim rhetoric by GOP sparks uproar on Capitol Hill

Targeting Free Speech/Right to Protest/Academia re: Palestinian lives/rights

• Daily Wire 3/19/26: Op-ed by Rep. Walberg (R-MI) – The Profs Aren’t Alright: How Radical Faculty Fuel The Rise Of Campus Antisemitism
• Jewish Insider 3/17/26: Education Committee finds SJP and faculty groups play central role in campus antisemitism
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/17/26: University leaders, faculty and students driving Jew-hatred and failing to fight it, House panel report says
• Jewish Insider 3/17/26: Education Committee finds SJP and faculty groups play central role in campus antisemitism [“Schools with Faculty and Staff for Justice in Palestine chapters were seven times more likely to experience violence against Jews, the report found“]
• Mondoweiss 3/13/26: One year after her arrest, a judge has ordered Leqaa Kordia to be released from ICE detention for the third time

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:

• 3/13/26: The Escalating Drive Toward Greater Israel – a View from Ramallah, ft. FMEP President Lara Friedman in conversation with Ramallah-based Palestinian journalist/analyst/commentator Nour Odeh.
• 3/3/26: Iran, Gaza and accountability, ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with Ben Rhodes, former Deputy National Security Advisor to President Obama

—————————-

1. Bills & Resolutions

(JUSTICE FOR HIND RAJAB) HR 7903 // S. 4905 [bill text]: Introduced 3/12/26 in the Senate by Welch (D-VT) and Van Hollen (D-MD), and in the House by Jacobs (D-CA), Castro (D-TX) and Jayapal (D-WA), the “Justice for Hind Rajab Act“, aka, “To call for accountability for the killing of innocent civilians, including 5-year-old Hind Rajab and two paramedics, in an attack in Gaza City on January 29, 2024, by Israel Defense Forces, to require the Secretary of State to report to Congress on the attack, and for other purposes.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs and the Committee on the Judiciary; and the Senate Foreign Relations Committee. Also see: press release – Welch, Jacobs Introduce Bicameral Bill Demanding Accountability for Hind Rajab, Palestinian Child Killed by Israeli Forces; one-pager on the bill; U.S. Lawmakers Introduce Hind Rajab Accountability Bill (Exclusive) (The Hollywood Reporter 3/12/26)

(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.

(US PERSONNEL WHO ARE SUPPOSED TO BE WORKING ON IRAN SHOULD NOT BE DOING IMMIGRATION ENFORCEMENT DURING US WAR ON IRAN!)  S. Res. 638: Introduced 3/11/26 by Gallego (D-AZ), “A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that the law enforcement agents and other personnel of the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security, who have been temporarily engaging in civil immigration enforcement operations, should be returned to their primary missions during periods of active hostility with Iran.”  Referred to the Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs. (All Actions)

(POLISARIO BETTER NOT COOPERATE WITH IRAN-LINKED ORG!) S. 4063: Introduced 3/11/26 by Cruz (R-TX) and 2 Republican cosponsors, “A bill to impose sanctions on the Polisario Front if it cooperates with an Iranian-affiliated terrorist organization.”  Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.

(CENSURING REP. ANDY OGLES) H. Res. 1113: Introduced 3/12/26 by Thanedar (D-MI), “Censuring Representative Andrew Ogles and Removing Him from the House Committee on Homeland Security.” Referred to the House Committee on Ethics. Also see: press release – Congressman Shri Thanedar Introduces Resolution to Censure Andy Ogles for his Hateful Bigotry

Media related to legislation previously covered in the Round-Up:

• Jewish Insider 3/9/26: Senate Dems introduce series of new war powers resolutions on Iran [“The resolutions are similar to that which failed in the Senate last week, but some narrow the scope of permitted intelligence sharing and military cooperation“]

2. Letters

• [ACCOUNTABILITY FOR STRIKE ON IRAN SCHOOL] 3/12/26: Reps. Sara Jacobs, Jason Crow, Yassamin Ansari Lead Majority of House Democratic Caucus Demanding Answers on Reported U.S. Strike on Iranian School [letter text]
• [ACCOUNTABILITY FOR CIVILIANS KILLED IN IRAN WAR] 3/11/26: Van Hollen, Kaine, Schatz, Warren Lead Over 40 Senators in Pressing DOD for Answers on School Bombing and Civilian Casualties in Iran [letter text] – signed by all Democratic senators except Fetterman (D-PA). Also see: Nearly all Senate Democrats blast White House over Iran girl’s school strike, civilian casualties (Jewish Insider 3/12/26)
• [HOLD HEARINGS ON IRAN WAR!] 3/11/26: BOOKER, KAINE, MURPHY, SCHIFF, BALDWIN, DUCKWORTH LAY OUT DEMAND TO THUNE FOR IMMEDIATE HEARINGS ON IRAN WAR FOLLOWING INTRODUCTION OF NEW WAR POWERS RESOLUTIONS [letter text]
• [END THE BETTING ON WAR & INVESTIGATE INSIDER BETTING] 3/9/26: Reed & Hickenlooper Urge CFTC to Increase Transparency, Prohibit Wagers on War & Investigate Insider Trading through Online Prediction Markets [letter text]
• [IRAN WAR-RELATED RUSSIA SANCTIONS RELIEF] 3/9/26: Gallego and Liccardo Demand Answers from Trump Administration on Russia Sanctions Relief [letter text]
• [TELL AMERICANS THE REAL COST OF IRAN WAR] 3/9/26: Ranking Member Markey Demands Full Transparency About the Cost of Trump’s Illegal Iran War [letter text]
• [ACCOUNTABILITY FOR AMERICANS KILLED IN THE WEST BANK] 3/6/26: Van Hollen, 30 Colleagues Press Administration for Accountability, Investigation into Deaths of American Citizens in West Bank [letter text]

3. Hearings & Markups

March 12, 2026: The Senate Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee held a hearing entitled, Transparency and Trust: Exposing Malign Foreign Influence in Higher Education [hearing video]. Witnesses were: Peter Wood, National Association of Scholars (statement – includes sections on “Ideological Capture through Middle East Studies Centers” and “The “Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions” (BDS) Movement and Campus Networks” and “Iranian Government Connections in Academia”); Craig Singleton, FDD (statement); and Robert Daly, Asia Society (statement).

March 20, 2026: The House Appropriations Committee will hold a an Oversight Field Hearing – Accountability and Reform at the United Nations. The sole scheduled witness (as of this writing) is U.S. Representative of the United States of America to the United Nations Michael Waltz.

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

• Capital & Empire 3/13/26: How AIPAC Democrats Accidentally Created an Iran War Vote Trap
• Jewish Insider 3/13/26: A foiled synagogue attack — and the hate that made it possible [including blaming Rep. Khanna (D-CA) and other Democrats who are critical of Israel for antisemitism and attacks on Jews]
• Mondoweiss 3/12/26: Congresswoman Rashida Tlaib demands Leqaa Kordia’s release, says ‘I’m afraid she’s going to die in there’
• Jewish Insider 3/12/26: Democratic divide over antisemitism erupts in clash between Third Way and Ro Khanna
• Jewish Insider 3/12/26: Pro-Israel Democrats walking a fine line on U.S. operation in Iran [“Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz said she would likely have voted to authorize force against Iran if the administration had approached Congress properly before launching the war“]
• Republican Jewish Coalition 3/12/26: RJC Endorses 16 Key House GOP Incumbents, Including All Jewish Republican Members
• Jewish Insider 3/12/26: Local Democrats offer lesson to national party in confronting hate [“While Republicans are now rejoicing over their narrow win, it otherwise largely demonstrated how Democratic leaders effectively sacrificed the seat to the GOP rather than elevate an extremist member of their own party”]
• Jewish Currents 3/11/26: AIPAC’s Attack on the Liberal Zionists Why is the lobby targeting liberal supporters of Israel?
• Semafor 3/11/26: The anti-AIPAC PAC talks about its 2026 strategy
• Jewish Insider 3/11/26: DMFI focusing ire on anti-Israel Democrats running in swing districts [“The pro-Israel Democratic group warns that nominating far-left candidates will cost the party winnable seats against GOP incumbents“]
• The Algemeiner 3/11/26: Congress Is Not ‘Bought’: What Commentators Get Wrong About Campaign Finance and Political Influence
• The Hill 3/11/26: Newsom’s squirming over AIPAC is a warning for pro-Israel Democrats
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/11/26: Hadassah leaders press Congress on antisemitism, US-Israel ties during ‘Day of Impact’ [“Schwartz told JNS that she was confident the Antisemitism Awareness Act would pass, and that her message to lawmakers worried about that kind of political calculus is that Jews vote, too.”]
• Jewish Insider 3/11/26: John Fetterman again offers scathing criticism of his own party’s foreign policy views [“The Pennsylvania senator told JI about the U.S. military operation’s successes: ‘Why can’t a single Democrat agree that this is a good thing for the world and the region?’“]
• Jewish Insider 3/11/26: Ben Rhodes calls for primaries against Democrats who support Iran war [“‘If you can’t stand against that, you don’t stand for a f***ing thing,’ the former Obama admin official said“]
• Hadassah 3/10/26: press release – 200 Hadassah Advocates Visit DC to Press Congress on US-Israel Relationship, Antisemitism and Health
• The Nation 3/10/26: Is AIPAC Doomed? [“The hard-line pro-Israel lobby is facing more opposition than ever before. But fully defanging it won’t be easy.“]
• Zeteo 3/10/26: Meet Three Congressional Candidates Taking on AIPAC [“AIPAC’s United Democracy Project Super PAC is spending heavily in election races, but these pro-Palestinian candidates in Dem primaries say voters have had enough of the group’s pro-Israel mission.“]
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 3/10/26: AIPAC is targeting candidates who want to condition aid to Israel. Who has crossed its red line? [“The embattled pro-Israel lobby is weighing races across the country as an increasing number of politicians pledge not to accept its endorsement or affiliated PAC’s money.”]
• Times of Israel 3/10/26: Shame on Senator Van Hollen and Shame on J Street!
• The Forward 3/10/26: Ted Cruz says GOP not ‘winning’ fight against antisemitism from figures like Tucker Carlson
• Jewish Insider 3/10/26: Ted Cruz warns GOP not winning battle against right-wing antisemitism
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/10/26: Sen. Van Hollen crosses a line [“At a time of rising antisemitism, responsible leaders should work to reduce hostility toward Jewish communities, not amplifying narratives that portray their civic participation as suspect.”]
• Jewish Insider 3/9/26: Gottheimer calls Newsom’s Israel apartheid comments ‘dangerous’ [“The New Jersey Democrat asked, ‘Is it really worth throwing Jews under the bus to advance your political ambitions?’”]
• Washington Free Beacon 3/9/26: Meet the Muslim-American Businessman Bankrolling ‘Squad’ Dems, Anti-AIPAC Outfits, and… Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie
• Mondoweiss 3/8/26: A David Frum response to Ro Khanna shows how hasbara culture has warped the Jewish community’s response to antisemitism [“When Ro Khanna made a sharp joke in response to an AIPAC smear, David Frum didn’t see politics but 3,000 years of Jew-hatred. That is hasbara culture in action.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Illinois

• Counterpunch 3/13/26: Chicago’s Labor Democrats Are Stuck in the (AIPAC) Past
• The American Prospect 3/12/26: Two Progressives Fight AIPAC (and Each Other) in IL-09
• The Intercept 3/12/26: AIPAC Is Staying Out of Illinois Senate Race — But Its Donors Back Juliana Stratton [“AIPAC is spending big in Tuesday’s Illinois House primaries. In the Senate race, its donors quietly lined up behind the lieutenant governor.“]
• The Cook Political Report 3/12/26: Illinois House Primary Preview: Chicagoland Primaries Test AIPAC’s Power
• American Prospect 3/12/26: In Illinois’s Eighth District, AIPAC and AI Try to Buy a Seat
• South Side Weekly 3/12/26: Frontrunners Kelly, Krishnamoorthi and Stratton Vie for Senate Seat
• Jewish Insider 3/11/26: New super PAC looks to blunt Kat Abughazaleh’s surge in Chicago-area district [“Pro-Israel groups appear to be focusing their firepower against the most vocal anti-Israel candidate in the primary, after initially hitting Evanston Mayor Daniel Biss“]
• Scheerpost 3/8/26: “AIPAC Is Toxic”: Illinois Races Expose a Shifting Democratic Landscape
• Jewish Insider 3/6/26: House Education Committee, in briefing, says Daniel Biss ‘severely downplayed antisemitism’ [“Biss reportedly told the committee ‘the great majority of his Jewish friends in the Northwestern community had no concerns,’ contrary to comments from Jewish community members and groups“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Georgia

• Jewish Insider 3/12/26: Israel supporter Clay Fuller expected to replace MTG on Capitol Hill [“Fuller has expressed strong support for Israel and for U.S. strikes against Iran“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

• The Forward 3/12/26: Trump endorses Brandon Herrera, Texas GOP candidate who owned copy of ‘Mein Kampf’ [“The firearms YouTuber’s campaign says ‘he has earned the support of leaders in the Jewish community’“]
• Jewish Insider 3/12/26: Trump backs Texas candidate Brandon Herrera, despite posts featuring Nazi content [NOTE: this article ran the same day as another Jewish Insider piece suggesting that if Democrats are serious about “confronting hate” they should be willing to sacrifice seats to Republicans in order to keep Democratic extremists from winning races]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Nebraska

• Jewish Insider 3/9/26: Independent Senate candidate Dan Osborn touted endorsement from anti-Israel group [“A New Policy PAC said Osborn ‘knows that “Made in the USA” should be a source of pride, not a label on weapons used against Palestinian families’“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Florida

• Center for Strategic Politics 3/10/26: FL-23 Democratic Primary Poll (Feb/Mar) – also see X-thread on the poll: “NEW POLL of Democratic primary voters in FL-23 | Oliver Larkin leads incumbent Jared Moskowitz 49-36 after positive bios | 63% of voters want to end or reduce military aid to Israel | Voters oppose strikes on Iran by a 50-point margin…On the issues, Moskowitz is severely out of step with FL-23 voters. *63%* of Democratic voters support reducing military aid to Israel, with 30% supporting a full cessation of aid. And while Jared Moskowitz has signaled support for the war on Iran, FL-23 Democrats oppose military strikes by a 50-point margin.“

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Kentucky

• Jewish Insider 3/12/26: Trump slams Thomas Massie at Kentucky rally bolstering support for the Iran war
• Jewish Insider 3/10/26: Thomas Massie’s opposition to Iran war could cost him reelection

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

• Jewish Insider 3/9/26: Pro-Israel Muslim Democrat walks political tightrope in Philly primary

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

• New Jersey Globe 3/13/26: Pro-Way group’s ad blitz was funded by AIPAC donors [“80% of DLGA’s fundraising during NJ-11 special came from donors who have also given to pro-Israel groups”]

Iran

• Jewish Insider 3/13/26:  Trump admin intervened to soften Iran oil sanctions bill, sources say
• Jewish Insider 3/12/26: GOP Sens. Hawley, Schmitt suggest U.S. operations in Iran can wrap up soon
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/12/26: Sanders condemns Israel’s Lebanon campaign, draws backlash for ignoring Hezbollah attacks [“The Vermont senator ‘does not value Arab lives. He simply detests Jewish ones,’ said Rabbi Yaakov Menken of the Coalition for Jewish Values.” Some context: Trump names 4 Orthodox rabbis among advisors of his new Religious Liberty Commission]
• Mondoweiss 3/12/26: The Shift: Lindsey Graham helped push Trump to war
• Jewish Insider 3/11/26: Richard Blumenthal predicts U.S. will deploy troops in Iran, though others dispute fears
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/10/26: After Trump admin briefing, Dem senator claims US on path to boots on ground in Iran
• The Forward 3/10/26: Jewish Democrats press for oversight as Trump’s Iran war rages on [“With support strong among Jews but not party voters generally, leaders say the dispute is about congressional powers, not opposition to Israel’s fight“]
• Jewish Insider 3/9/26: Group of Democrats threatens to obstruct Senate business to secure hearings, debate on Iran war 

Islamophobia

• Axios 3/13/26: Democrats move to censure GOP Reps. Fine and Ogles
• Washington Times 3/13/26: Democrats want to censure GOP Rep. Andy Ogles over anti-Muslim comments; Rep. Randy Fine may be next
• Truthout 3/11/26: Speaker Johnson Defends Ogles, Fine, Amid Calls to Condemn Islamophobic Rhetoric
• Politico 3/10/26: Mike Johnson declines to condemn Republicans’ anti-Muslim remarks
• Axios 3/9/26: Rep. Ogles enrages colleagues with anti-Muslim post
• The Hill 3/9/26: Ogles defends anti-Muslim remark by slamming Dems for DHS shutdown
• NBC News 3/9/26: GOP Rep. Andy Ogles sparks backlash after saying Muslims ‘don’t belong’ in America

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:

• 3/4/26: What do West Bank Palestinian youth want? — ft. FMEP President Lara Friedman in conversation with author and scholar Dr. Nathan J. Brown (Carnegie Endowment for Int’l Peace & George Washington University) about his recent article, For Younger Palestinians, Crisis Has Become a Way of Life
• 3/3/26: The American-Israeli war on Iran – Polls and Impact on Strategic Considerations — ft. FMEP fellow Ahmed Moor in conversation with University of Maryland Professor and renowned pollster Dr. Shibley Telhami and FMEP President Lara Friedman

—————————-

1. Bills & Resolutions

US/Israel War with Iran

• (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 104: Introduced 1/29/26 by Kaine (D-VA) and 27 cosponsors [24 Democrats plus Sanders (I-VT) and Paul (R-KY)], “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.” Defeated in the Senate 3/4/26 by a vote of 47-5 [the vote was on a motion to discharge the resolution from the Committee on Foreign Relations]. All Democrats except for Fetterman (D-PA) voted in favor; all Republicans except for Paul (R-KY) voted against. Also see: Senate rejects bid to restrain Trump’s war in Iran (Axios 3/4/26); Senate defeats resolution to halt Iran war, largely along party lines (Jewish Insider 3/4/26); Senate Republicans Block War Powers Limits as Mideast Crisis Widens (New York Times 3/4/26); War Powers resolution fails in Senate as Democrats scramble to figure out position on Iran war (Mondoweiss 3/5/26). NOTE: Pretty much every senator made some kind of statement regarding his/her vote on S. J. Res. 104 – check websites and social media accounts to see what a specific senator said.
• (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) H. Con. Res. 38: Introduced 6/17/25 by Massie (R-KY) and having 94 cosponsors (all Democrats), “Directing the President pursuant to section 5(c) of the War Powers Resolution to remove United States Armed Forces from unauthorized hostilities in the Islamic Republic of Iran.“ Brought to the House floor 3/4/26; the Chair declared the measure defeated by a Voice Vote. After a roll call vote was demanding, the measure was defeated by a vote of 212-219, thanks to 4 Democrats voting “no” [Democrats voting NO were: Cuellar (D-TX), Golden (D-ME), Landsman (D-OH), and Vargas (D-CA); Republicans voting YES were: Massie (R-KY) and Davidson (R-OH)]. The Arab Center Washington’s Yousef Munayyer commented on the vote on X: “This tells you the outcome was managed by AIPAC Shakur Jeffries. Allowing exactly the amount of Dems needed to defeat this is the tell. Dems will pose as if they worked to stop this in most races but in reality it is staged.” NOTE: Pretty much every House member made some kind of statement regarding H. Con. Res. 38 – check websites and social media accounts to see what a specific member said. Also see: statement from Rep. Moskowitz (D-FL), explaining why, after hearing from Trump Admin briefers, he changed his mind about voting NO on this resolution, and decided to vote YES; and Gottheimer (D-NJ) statement on his “YES” vote, stating that there will be a vote on his resolution (H. Con. Res. 75 – below) the week of March 26. HFAC Ranking member Meeks (D-NY) also announced that “he would force a vote on his own Iran War Powers Resolution introduced last year if President Trump’s war of choice continues past 60 days.” Also see: House narrowly defeats war powers resolution to end operations in Iran (Jewish Insider 3/5/26); House defeats Iran war powers resolution as Democrats wrestle with Israel (The Forward 3/5/26)
• (REMOVE U.S. FROM IRAN WAR, BUT NOT UNTIL YOU’VE HAD PLENTY OF TIME TO FIRST WAGE THE WAR YOU WANT TO WAGE) H. Con. Res. 75: Introduced 3/4/36 by Gottheimer (D-NJ) and 8 Democratic 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.“ Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see: Gottheimer press release 3/3/26 — DEMOCRATS INTRODUCE NEW WAR POWERS RESOLUTION [“President Has Thirty Days to Present Case for Extended Aggression to Congress, American People; No Ground Troops Without Explicit Congressional Approval; Congress, Relevant Committees Must be Regularly Briefed During Thirty-Day Period“]; Also see: House Iran War Powers Resolution Could Lose Support to Competing Bill by Pro-Israel Democrat [“The Senate version already failed, with Fetterman once again casting the only Democratic vote against imposing restrictions on Trump’s Iran war.”] (The Intercept 3/4/26); Moderate House Democrats pitch alternative war powers resolution on Iran (Jewish Insider 3/3/26); House Dems tells Trump to convince Congress soon or end war in Iran (Jewish News Syndicate 3/4/26).
• (IRAN = TERRORISM) H. Res. 1099: Introduced 3/4/26 by Mast (R-FL) and two Republican cosponsors, “Reaffirming Iran remains the largest state sponsor of terrorism” [in essence, a resolution making the case for why the Trump Administration attacked Iran]. Brought to the floor immediately (3/4/26) under suspension of the rules, passed by a vote of 372-53. Also see: Why did 53 Democrats vote against describing Iran as a state sponsor of terrorism? (Jewish Insider 3/5/26)
• (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 114: Introduced 3/5/26 by Baldwin (D-WI), “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.
• (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN)  S. J. Res. 115: Introduced 3/5/26 by Murphy (D-CT) and 3 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 red to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
• (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 116: Introduced 3/5/26 by Murphy (D-CT) and 3 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.
• (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 117: Introduced 3/5/26 by Schiff (D-CA) and 3 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.
• (REMOVE U.S. FROM UNAUTHORIZED WAR WITH IRAN) S. J. Res. 118: Introduced 3/5/26 by Booker (D-NJ) and 3 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.

Other stuff

• (CONDEMNING SETTLER TERRORISM, SETTLEMENT EXPANSION, ETC) H. Res. 1092:  Introduced 3/2/26 by Khanna (D-CA), “Condemning Israeli settlement expansion, settler violence, and related human rights abuses in the West Bank, and calling for accountability and specific United States policy responses to deter further violations and protect the viability of a negotiated two-State solution.”  Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Committee on the Judiciary. Also see: Exclusive: Ro Khanna to introduce sweeping resolution condemning Israeli settlements, settler violence (Middle East Eye 2/26/26)
• (TARGETING US 501c3 SECTOR) HR 7799 [bill text]: Introduced 3/4/26 by Moran (R-TX), “To amend the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide that 501(c)(3) organizations are liable for the use of funding provided as a fiscal sponsor,” aka the “Stop Proxy Organizations Nurturing Subversive Operations and Riots (SPONSOR) Act.” Referred to the House Committee on Ways and Means. NOTE: this is the House version of S. 3942, covered in last week’s Round-Up. This week Cruz (R-TX), lead sponsor of S. 3942, issued a press release laying out the explicit intent behind the legislation.

Media related to legislation previously covered in the Round-Up:

• Jewish Currents 2/27/26: As Americans Sour on Aid to Israel, Jewish Anti-Occupation Groups Split on Strategy – Rival House bills show fractures between factions. (re: HR 7645, covered in last week’s Round-Up.

2. Letters

• (DO MILITARY LEADERS SEE IRAN WAR IS PART OF END-TIMES PROPHECIES???) 3/6/26: Members of Congress Request Investigation into Alleged Reports that Military Leaders Claim War in Iran Part of Biblical End-Times Prophecies [letter text]
• (WITH THE US AT WAR WITH IRAN, KEEP THE HOUSE IN SESSION!) 3/6/36: Moskowitz Leads 9 Members in Urging Speaker to Keep House in Session Amid Escalating Iran Conflict [letter text]
• (WHAT IS IRAN WAR COSTING THE AMERICAN PEOPLE?) 3/5/26: Boyle Requests CBO Analysis on Cost of Trump’s Iran War [letter text]
• (ACCOUNTABILITY, INVESTIGATION INTO DEATHS OF AMCITS IN WEST BANK) 3/5/26: Van Hollen, 30 Colleagues Press Administration for Accountability, Investigation into Deaths of American Citizens in West Bank [letter text]. Also see: Senators demand investigation after ninth American killed by Israeli settlers or soldiers in West Bank (The Guardian 3/5/26)
• (HELP AMERICANS STUCK IN THE MIDEAST!) 3/5/26: After Trump Starts War in Iran, Warren Leads Massachusetts Delegation in Pressing Rubio on “Complete Failure” to Help American Citizens Evacuate Middle East [letter text]
• (HELP AMERICANS STUCK IN THE MIDEAST!) 3/5/26: Ranking Member Shaheen, Foreign Relations Democrats Press State Department on Failure to Protect U.S. Diplomats in Lead Up to Iran Strikes [letter text]
• (HOW IS THE FBI KEEPING AMERICAN SAFE VIS-A-VISA IRAN??) 3/4/36: Thompson, Magaziner Demand Answers from Kash Patel After Firing Staff Working on Iran Threats [letter text]. Also see X-post 3/4/26 by Magaziner (D-RI): “Kash Patel fired FBI counterterrorism agents with expertise on Iran just days before the war began. @BennieGThompson and I are demanding that Patel explain himself in front of the Homeland Security Cmte and take steps to protect Americans from Iran-backed terror attacks.”
• (HELP AMERICANS STUCK IN THE MIDEAST!) 3/4/26: Gillibrand Demands An End To Trump’s Reckless War With Iran [letter text]
• (HELP AMERICANS STUCK IN THE MIDEAST!) 3/4/26: Congressman Carter Calls for State Department to Bring Americans Stuck in the Middle East Home [letter text]
• (HELP AMERICANS STUCK IN THE MIDEAST!)  3/3/26: Meng and Lieu Lead Letter Urging State Department to Bring Back Americans Stuck in Middle East [letter text]
• (HELP AMERICANS STUCK IN THE MIDEAST!) 3/3/26: Ranking Member Subramanyam Demands Immediate Action to Assist American Citizens Stranded in Middle East [letter text]
• (DEMS DEMAND IRAN BRIEFING FROM TRUMP ADMIN) 3/3/26: Meeks, Smith, Himes, McCollum, DeLauro Send Letter to Iran Briefers Demanding Direct Answers on U.S. Military Operations Against Iran [letter text]
• (TRUMP ADMIN ABUSE OF POWER TO DEPORT STUDENTS) 3/2/26: Warren, Markey, Van Hollen, Pressley, Lawmakers Question Rubio on Abuse of Power to Deport Students, Academics; Violation of First Amendment Rights [letter text]. The letter explicitly focuses on the cases of Tufts University graduate student Rümeysa Öztürk, and other students targeted for their free speech/protest for Palestinian lives/rights. Excerpt: “We write with regard to recent disclosures that the government appeared to target students largely based on their speech, potentially violating their First Amendment rights while seeking their deportation despite the fact that none of these students were accused of a crime at the time or have been to date. In the spring of 2025, you ‘personally approved the deportation of five students activists’ based on an ill-conceived, and unconstitutional, legal theory. At the time, we raised concerns that this was part of a broader pattern of arresting students with valid green cards and visas because of their political views. Recently unsealed court documents confirm that the State Department and Immigrations and Customs Enforcement (ICE) assessed the students’ speech and participation in protests around the war in Gaza and that you personally approved their arrest and the revocation of their visas in the United States“
• (INVESTIGATE HOW TELECOM COs HANDLE DHS SUBPOENAS) 3/2/26: Reps. Kelly, Jayapal leads 26 members of Congress in letter to major tech, telecom companies about how they handle DHS administrative subpoenas [letter text]. Excerpt: “DHS has issued administrative subpoenas to identify individuals based on protest or political activity, including a Columbia University student who participated in pro-Palestinian protests, Instagram users posting about ICE raids in Los Angeles, Harvard University employees, approximately 7,000 workers who protested ICE’s intrusion into a Minnesota hospital, and the operator of an anonymous Instagram account that reposted a video identifying a Border Patrol agent and whose subpoena was later withdrawn by DHS after it was challenged in court. Altogether, these actions reflect a recurring practice of using administrative subpoenas to collect information about individuals based on protest, political advocacy, or criticism of federal immigration policy. Such practices raise serious First Amendment concerns, as they risk suppressing protected speech and deterring civic participation. Even if nothing is produced by online platforms, the mere act of issuing subpoenas chills future speech. These practices undermine public trust in both law enforcement and the private companies entrusted with Americans’ personal data.“
• (EXTEND YEMEN TPS) 3/2/26: Slotkin, Peters Urge Secretary Noem to Redesignate and Extend TPS for Yemen Due to the Ongoing Armed Conflict [letter text]
• (CONVENE CONGRESS TO VOTE ON WAR POWERS RESOLUTION) 2/28/26: Congressman Al Green Calls for Reconvening of Congress to Take Up War Powers Resolution Sponsored by Khanna and Massie [letter text]
• (INVESTIGATE BINANCE) 2/27/26: Van Hollen, Banking Committee Democrats Press Bondi and Bessent to Investigate Binance Following Reports of Flouting Sanctions, US Law [letter text]. Excerpt: “According to reporting, last year, Binance compliance personnel obtained evidence that $1.7 billion in digital assets had been funneled through Binance to Iranian entities tied to terrorism, including both the Iran-backed Houthis and Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. In one instance, evidence suggested that one of Binance’s own vendors routed $1.2 billion in funds to Iran-linked entities. Investigators also learned that Iranians were able to access more than 1,500 Binance accounts, and that the platform may have been used in connection with Russian attempts to evade sanctions. Binance subsequently fired several of these staff. In addition, the reports describe a broader deterioration in Binance’s compliance functions. Compliance officials at Binance have departed or been dismissed beyond those who uncovered the links to Iranian entities. According to law enforcement, Binance has grown markedly less cooperative with requests for information about customers as well.”

3. Hearings & Markups

March 5, 2026: The House Committee on Foreign Affairs held a hearing, entitled, Advancing National Security through Public Diplomacy (hearing vide0). The sole witness was Under Secretary of State for Public Diplomacy Sarah B. Rogers (statement). Also see: Meeks (D-NY) opening statement;

March 3, 2026: The Senate Armed Services Committee held a hearing (part open/part closed), entitled, To receive an update on the National Defense Strategy (hearing vide0). The sole witness was Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge A. Colby (statement). Also see:

• Committee members: Chairman Wicker Leads SASC Hearing on the National Defense Strategy [Wicker (R-MS)]; In SASC Hearing, Kelly Presses Pentagon on Contradictions in Iran War Justification [Kelly (D-AZ)]; At Hearing, Trump Military Leader Admits to Warren the Hypocrisy Between Trump’s National Defense Strategy and Military Strikes in Iran (Warren, D-MA); King Questions Whether U.S. Has “Now Delegated” War Decisions to Other Countries [King (I-ME)]; In Senate Armed Services Committee Hearing, Shaheen Grills Under Secretary Colby on Past Comments Arguing Against Strikes on Iran [Shaheen (D-NH]
• Media: Pentagon Official Defends New National Defense Strategy’s ‘Flexible Realism’ in Senate Hearing (U.S. Naval Institute News 3/3/26); Elbridge Colby defends Iran strikes amid criticism of National Defense Strategy (Jewish Insider 3/3/26)

• Committee members: Grassley (R-IA) opening statement; Durbin (D-IL) opening statement; Grassley Questions Noem at DHS Oversight Hearing (Grassley press release 3/3/26); Durbin Presses DHS Secretary Kristi Noem During Senate Judiciary Committee Oversight Hearing (Durbin press release 3/3/26)
• Media:  Kristi Noem says DHS prepared for Iran sleeper cell threats amid agency shutdown (Jewish Insider 3/3/26)

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

• Jewish Currents 3/6/26: In Illinois, AIPAC-Backed Candidates Defected on Iran [“It’s a sign of the predicament the unpopular war has created for AIPAC.“]
• Jewish Insider 3/6/26: Mirror, mirror: Dems’ Israel problems look a lot like the GOP on Ukraine
• Jewish Insider 3/6/26: The progressive [Jewish] operative nudging Democrats toward a hostile line on Israel
• Washington Times 3/5/26: Democrats embrace antisemitism to win elections [Note that this piece is entirely about ISRAEL]
• New York Times 3/5/26: Once a Bipartisan Stalwart, AIPAC Turns ‘Toxic’ in the Illinois Primaries [“The intervention of AIPAC supporters in Chicago-area Democratic primaries, including one with opposing Jewish candidates, has made the pro-Israel lobby an issue on the left.“]
• The Intercept 3/4/26: Trump’s Iran War Is Dividing Republicans. Pro-Palestine Groups Want Democrats to Exploit the Rifts. [“A pro-Palestine group launched the first of $2 million in ad buys aiming to exploit Republican rifts over Israel. They hope Democrats will take note.“]
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/4/26: AIPAC, other pro-Israel groups enter midterms with $100 million to spend [“A spokeswoman for AIPAC, which has $96 million on hand, said that ‘our six million grassroots members are as determined and eager as ever to participate this election cycle.‘”]
• Jewish Insider 3/4/26: Anti-establishment mood sets stage for 2026 midterms
• Axios 3/4/26: Scoop: Democrats face primary threats over Iran vote
• The New Yorker 3/4/26: Why a Democratic Congressman Is Supporting Trump’s War with Iran [“Representative Greg Landsman explains his hope that the conflict remains limited but also creates an entirely new Middle East.”]
• Associated Press 3/3/26: Democrats’ unity against Trump faces a test after U.S. and Israeli strikes on Iran
• Al Jazeera 3/3/26: US midterm primary season kicks off in shadow of Iran war
• The Hill 3/3/26: ‘Breathtaking’: Independent senator deplores Rubio’s explanation for Iran attacks
• Politico 3/3/26: Ties to Israel plague Democrats in top primaries post-Gaza [“In Illinois, Texas and Michigan, candidates have been forced to address connections to Israel as support wanes among Democrats.“]
• Axios 3/3/26: Dem leaders fume as insurgents wage costly civil war
• Jacobin 3/3/26: AIPAC Is Influencing Trump’s War in Iran
• Washington Examiner 3/3/26: AIPAC-funded Democratic leaders buck Israel on Iran strikes
• Jewish Insider 3/3/26: Mamdani allies, deep-pocketed donors mobilize millions for anti-AIPAC effort [“A trio of Mamdani backers united with tech and real estate investors to boost anti-Israel candidates“]
• The Intercept 3/2/26: Democratic Leaders Avoid Criticizing Trump’s Iran War. Now Voters Will Have a Say. [“Top Democrats close to AIPAC stick to criticizing Trump’s process failures — but primary candidates are calling for a referendum on the war itself.”]
• Al Jazeera 3/2/26: Anti-war candidates pose early test for US Democrats after attacks on Iran [“Vowing to abolish ICE, reset US-Israel policy and put workers first, candidates say Democrats need ‘unapologetic’ voices.”
• The Lever 3/2/26: Operation AIPAC Fury [“Israel lobby-backed Democrats could determine whether Trump must seek approval before escalating the war in Iran.”]
• Politico 3/1/26: Strikes at Iran could reshape primary election dynamics [“Democratic candidates face new litmus tests as AIPAC money and U.S. intervention dominate primary races.“]
• Eurasia Review 3/1/26: Pro-Israel Lobby Groups And American Midterm Elections
• The Democracy Labs 3/1/26: Your Taxes, Their Wars: How AIPAC Lobbying Dictates US Foreign Policy And Funds Israel’s Endless Wars
• Al Quds 3/1/26: AIPAC’s Campaign Against Dissent Is Redrawing — and Constraining — Democratic Politics
• Jewish Insider 3/1/26: Chris Van Hollen, in J Street address, calls AIPAC anti-American [“‘AIPAC may call itself pro-American. They may call themselves pro-Israel. But they are neither,’ the Maryland senator said“]
• Sludge 2/28/26: Here Is How Much AIPAC Has Funneled to Every Member of Congress

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – North Carolina

• The Intercept 3/5/6: Nida Allam Concedes to Valerie Foushee With Razor-Thin Loss for Progressives in Key Midterm Primary
• Washington Free Beacon 3/5/26: Mamdani Donor Attack on Democratic Incumbent Fails
• National Today 3/5/26: Anti-Israel Donors Fail to Unseat Democratic Incumbent in North Carolina
• North Carolina 3/5/26: PAC spending tops $4.5M in NC-04 as Dem primary moves toward likely recount [“The new spending brings the total to $4,518,411 between two-term incumbent Democrat Valerie Foushee and challenger Nida Allam.“]
• Newsweek 3/5/36: Progressive Anti-AIPAC Group Loses First Election Test
• Mother Jones 3/4/26: The “Zohran Mamdani of North Carolina” Took on an Incumbent Democrat in This Primary Race. Now It’s Likely Headed for a Recount. [“Although incumbent Rep. Valerie Foushee seems likely to retain the seat, the narrow race is yet another indicator of the Democratic Party’s divide.“]
• Politico 3/4/26: Anti-AIPAC group loses first primary test as Rep. Valerie Foushee hangs on
• The New Republic 3/4/26: Progressives See Massive Gains in North Carolina Primary [“Democratic voters rejected ICE and AIPAC.“]
• New York Times 3/2/26: Tensions Over the Iran War, Israel and A.I. Churn in a North Carolina Race
• Jewish Insider 3/3/26: Iran war complicates Democratic primaries as Election Day approaches [“The military engagement could energize the party’s activist base in a number of primaries, with races in North Carolina and Illinois serving as early tests“]
• Politico 3/2/26: This House Democrat may lose her primary over past support for Israel [“The primary of Rep. Valerie Foushee, a North Carolina Democrat, is putting a spotlight on the shifting politics of Israel within the party.“]
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 3/2/26: Iran, Israel and Hitler’s gun are all on the ballot in key primaries in Texas and NC on Tuesday

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Illinois

• Mondweiss 3/5/26: Is AIPAC headed for another own goal in Illinois?
• Evanton Now 3/5/26: Dark money balloons as election day nears
• Politico 3/3/5/26: AIPAC Influence Divides Illinois Democratic Primaries [“Pro-Israel lobby’s spending in Chicago-area races sparks backlash from progressive candidates”]
• NerdStash 3/5/26: AIPAC Spends Big to Slam Illinois Candidate Kat Abughazaleh, ‘Sounds Like an Onion Parody’
• National Today 3/5/26: AIPAC Faces Backlash in Illinois House Primaries [“Once a bipartisan stalwart, the pro-Israel lobbying group has become a ‘boogeyman’ for some Democrats“]
• Axios 3/4/26: AIPAC, crypto and AI spend big in Illinois house races
• Daily Northwestern 3/3/26: Digital ad from another super PAC with apparent AIPAC ties attacks Abughazaleh
• National Today 3/3/26: AIPAC Pours Millions Into Illinois Primaries, Sparking Debate Over Israel Relationship [“The powerful pro-Israel lobby group’s aggressive spending in Democratic primaries is dividing the party and raising questions about the role of undisclosed campaign cash.“]
• Jewish Insider 3/3/26: Iran war complicates Democratic primaries as Election Day approaches [“The military engagement could energize the party’s activist base in a number of primaries, with races in North Carolina and Illinois serving as early tests“]
• Axios 3/2/26: How AIPAC funding affects local Iran war support
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/2/26: Do you or don’t you get money from AIPAC? [“Among countless societal and political concerns in the United States right now, that seems to be the focus of a congressional race in Chicago.“]
• The Forward 2/27/26: AIPAC is trying to derail my House campaign because I’m a Jew who defies Israel [“The group’s tactics show they know that voters don’t support their agenda“]
• Fox News 2/28/26: AIPAC faces test of its power in Illinois primary as Democrats debate future of Israel relationship
• SSB Crack 2/28/26: AIPAC’s Influence Rises in Illinois Primary Amid Campaign Cash Controversy

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

• New York Times 3/4/26: Congressman Faces Questions About Wife’s Social Media Stances on Israel [“Representative Dan Goldman of New York distanced himself from the social media activity of his wife and campaign treasurer, saying she does ‘not speak for me.’”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

• Jewish Insider 2/28/26: Platner sat for lengthy interview with antisemitic conspiracy theorist, said he was ‘longtime fan’ of his show

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

• Jewish Insider 3/5/26: Anti-Israel Republican moves closer to House seat as Tony Gonzales steps aside
• Common Dreams 3/5/26: Outspoken Pro-Palestinian Pastor Wins Primary to Replace Crockett in House [“A group that tracks pro-Israel lobbying said his victory ‘proves that the AIPAC era is over.‘”]
• Jerusalem Post 3/5/26: Pastor who embraced Farrakhan wins Texas Dem primary, as Nazi-gun enthusiast advances to GOP runoff [“The Rev. Frederick Haynes III, pastor to Rep. Jasmine Crockett, who has praised Louis Farrakhan and whose progressive sermons have included denunciations of Israel, easily won the Democratic primary to replace his congregant in Texas’s 30th district on Tuesday.“]
• New Yorker 3/4/26: Texas Primary Election Results: James Talarico Wins as Republican Senate Candidates Head to a Runoff
• Jewish Telegraphic Agency 3/2/26: Iran, Israel and Hitler’s gun are all on the ballot in key primaries in Texas and NC on Tuesday

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Arizona

• Jewish Insider 3/5/26: Ruben Gallego transforms from pro-Israel moderate to face of antiwar opposition [“The Arizona senator’s outspoken commentary has repeatedly placed blame for the military operation on Israel, leading one Jewish Democrat to pull her support“]

Iran

• Fetterman 3/5/26: Fetterman on Iranian leaders: ‘Just keep killing them’ [“‘Hopefully they’ll pick someone that realizes that they need to live and coexist in peace in the region and stop trying to destroy Israel and destabilize the region,’ said the Pennsylvania senator.”]
• Jewish Insider 3/5/26: Lawmakers keep arm’s length from WH’s reported Kurdish insurgency push in Iran [“Members of both parties indicated they had not been briefed on the alleged plans; some Republicans were broadly supportive while Democrats were skeptical“]
• Jewish Insider 3/4/26: After classified briefing, senators reject claims Israel forced U.S. into Iran war
• Fox News 3/3/26: REP RO KHANNA: Congress must reclaim war powers from an out-of-control Trump over Iran [“I believe we must do everything in our power to stop this horrific war of choice with Iran before more Americans are killed“]
• DropSite 3/3/26: Hakeem Jeffries Whipping Votes Against Trump’s So-Far-Unbridled War on Iran
• Jewish Insider 3/3/26: Congressional leaders split over whether U.S. faced imminent threat from Iran [“Both Secretary of State Rubio and House Speaker Mike Johnson suggested Israel’s determination to strike Iran necessitated U.S. engagement“]
• Jewish News Syndicate 3/2/26: Sen. Graham hails ‘Operation Epic Fury,’ says its ‘ahead of schedule’ [“The South Carolina Republican called the campaign ‘one of the most impressive military operations’ in U.S. history.“]
• Jewish Insider 3/2/26: Democratic lawmakers rally support for war powers resolutions at J Street conference [“J Street members are heading to Capitol Hill on Tuesday to lobby members of Congress to vote in favor of constraining military action in Iran“]
• The Forward 3/2/26: The Jewish space lasers are real — well, kind of [“Everyone made fun of Marjorie Taylor Greene when she said that Rothschild-funded space lasers had caused forest fires. But, as it turns out, the space lasers are real. Well, sort of.“]
• The Forward 3/2/26: Jewish Democrats split over Trump’s Iran military strikes as Congress weighs war powers
• Jewish Insider 3/2/26: As Iran war continues, Senate and House set for long-shot votes to cut it short [“The resolutions are unlikely to pass; if they do, they will need two-thirds support to override an inevitable presidential veto“]
• Wall Street Journal 3/1/26: op-ed by Senator Tim Kaine (D-VA) An Unwise and Unconstitutional Attack on Iran [“More war isn’t the answer. If it were, the past 70 years would have produced a better outcome than what we see today.“]
• Jewish Insider 2/28/26: Partisan divide emerges on Iran strike, centering on congressional authorization [“Most Democrats are pushing for a war powers resolution next week, amid ongoing military operations“]

Other stuff

• Jewish Insider 3/2/26: At J Street, Chris Murphy argues Jewish history demands resistance to Trump [“Murphy: ‘Not a single one of us is safe from a future that mirrors the thousands of years of persecution that the Jewish people, with no self-determination, suffered under’“]