FMEP Legislative Round-Up February 6, 2026

Resource

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:

  • 2/6/26: Enduring devastation: “They redefined the human being in Gaza”, ft. FMEP Fellow Peter Beinart speaking with Jaser Abu Mousa, a 2025 Yale Peace Fellow and past Program Officer working for the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC) in Gaza. The two discuss life and death in Gaza on personal and collective levels. They look at Hamas, which Jaser calls a “symptom” of the problem of occupation; at how the past two-plus years of war have destroyed not only all the infrastructure needed for life in Gaza but also the social fabric, as starvation and deprivation have broken human bonds and relationships; and the ways in which Israel works to make Gaza unlivable. On a personal level, Jaser speaks of his experiences in Gaza, from the violence he witnessed as a child during the second Intifada to the devastation he experienced on and since October 7, 2023: his wife, Heba, and two of his children were killed by Israeli missiles in mid-October 2023; after two years of starvation and deprivation, his mother, sister, and sister’s children were killed in the war in July 2025; and his family suffered other losses, including the killing of a nephew in the beginning of the war, injuring of his father, and arrest, detention, and violence against his brother along with other medical workers. Navigating these unfathomable losses, Jaser points to his faith in God and religion as guides as he seeks to protect his living children and look towards the future. Finally, Jaser reflects on how he relates to Israelis and declares that “if I strip him from his right to tell his story, that does not make me more just, but will make me less human.”
  • 2/1/26: Severed: Looking at Disability Justice, Palestinian rights, and Gaza, ft. 2025 FMEP fellow Hilary Rantisi speaking with filmmaker and activist Jen Marlowe about the film Severed, which Jen directed. The film, released in late 2025, tells the story of Mohamad Saleh, a teenager from Gaza who has endured five major Israeli assaults, lost his home, close family members, his best friends, and—at the age of 12—his leg. Hilary and Jen discuss disablement, disability justice, and Gaza, which now has the largest cohort of child amputees in the world.

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1. Bills & Resolutions

(REPORT ON KILLING OF SHIREEN ABU AKLEH) HR 7281: Introduced 1/30/26 by Carson (D-IN) and 13 Democratic cosponsors, “To require a report on the death of Shireen Abu Akleh.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see: press release – Rep. Carson Reintroduces the Justice for Shireen Act

(INTERNET FOR IRANIANS) HR 7380 [bill text]: Introduced 2/4/26 by Swalwell (D-CA) and 5 bipartisan cosponsors, “To make certain improvements relating to the coordination of efforts to promote internet freedom and access to information in Iran, and for other purposes,” aka the “Internet Reach and Access Now Act” or “IRAN Act.”  Referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Committee on Energy and Commerce. Also see: Swalwell press release – Swalwell, Lawmakers Introduced Bill to Promote Internet Freedom and Accesss to Information in Iran; Tenney (R-NY) press release – Congresswoman Tenney Leads Bipartisan IRAN Act to Expand Internet Freedom for the Iranian People

(CONDEMNING IRANIAN REGIME) H. Res. 1031: Introduced 2/2/26 by Mills (R-FL) and no cosponsors, “Condemning the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran for its violent repression of peaceful protesters, its documented pattern of human rights abuses, and its sponsorship of extremist militant groups across the Middle East.“ Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see: Mills X-post – “Today, I introduced a resolution condemning the Iranian regime for its violent repression, persistent human rights abuses, and its continued sponsorship of terrorism around the world. The people of Iran deserve freedom, dignity, and the opportunity to live without fear under an authoritarian regime. Their courage is seen, their voices matter, and I will continue to stand with them in their pursuit of justice and liberty.” Also see: press release – Congressman Mills Introduces Resolution Condemning Iran’s Repression and Terror Sponsorship

(REVERSE DECISION TO ALLOW EXPORT OF AI CHIPS TO UAE) S. Res. 598: Introduced 2/5/26 by Warren (D-MA) and 3 Democratic cosponsors, “A resolution condemning and calling for the reversal of President Trump’s decision to allow the export of advanced artificial intelligence chips to the United Arab Emirates, despite significant risks to national security and just months after the United Arab Emirates signed a secret $500,000,000 deal to buy close to a majority stake in the Trump family crypto company World Liberty Financial.” Referred to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs.

(ISRAEL/MIDDLE EAST IN THE FY26 CONSOLIDATED APPROPS) HR 7148: On 1/22/26, the House passed HR 7148, a consolidated appropriations bill combining FY26 Appropriations Bills that remained un-passed until now, by a vote of 341-88. On 1/30/26 the Senate amended and passed HR 7148 by a vote of 71-29. On 2/3/26, the House passed the Senate-adopted version of HR 7148 by a mostly party-line vote of 217-214 [a notably difference from the 1/22/26 vote], clearing the way for the bill to be signed into law by the President that same day (and ending the brief partial government shutdown). As a reminder, HR 7148 is a House-Senate conference version of the combined remaining FY25 Appropriations Bills, and is accompanied by a Joint Explanatory Statement. HR 7148 includes the FY26 Defense Appropriations bill, which includes significant annual funding for Israel [funding that is in addition to the massive funding for Israel in the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs legislation covered last week in detail], as well as other Middle East-related funding provisions, all laid out below. HR 7148 also includes the FY26 Appropriations for the Food and Drug Administration – legislation that, as it happens, also includes an interesting Israel/Middle East-related provision, as laid out in the 1/23/26 edition of the Round-Up:

  • AID FOR ISRAEL: Section 8071 hard earmarks $500 million for Israeli Cooperative Programs, sub-earmarked as follows: $60 million for Iron Dome; $127 million for the Short Range Ballistic Missile Defense (SRBMD) program; $40 million for co-production activities of SRBMD systems; $100 million for co-production activities of Arrow 3 Upper Tier systems; and $173 million for the Arrow System Improvement Program.
  • AID FOR LEBANESE ARMED FORCES: Section 8034 hard earmarks $50 million for the Secretary of Defense, in coordination with the Secretary of State, to provide assistance to the Lebanese Armed Forces, subjects to many, many caveats.
  • AID FOR JORDAN: Section 8109 hard earmarks $150 million for Jordan, and Section 8120 soft earmarks $500 million for the armed forces of Jordan.
  • Title II: Includes a section hard earmarking $342,516 million for “Counter-ISIS Train & Equip Fund”
  • ABRAHAM ACCORDS: Sec. 6611 (part of the FDA’s FY26 appropriations) is entitled, “Establishment of Abraham Accords Office within the Food and Drug Administration.” This provision mandates the establishment of an office with the FDA, within 2 years, and “provide technical assistance to regulatory partners in Abraham Accords countries on strengthening regulatory oversight and converging regulatory requirements for the oversight of regulated products, including good manufacturing practices and other issues relevant to manufacturing medical products that are regulated by the Food and Drug Administration” and “facilitate interactions between the Food and Drug Administration and interested parties in Abraham Accords countries, including by sharing relevant information regarding United States regulatory pathways with such parties, and facilitate feedback on the research, development, and manufacturing of products regulated in accordance with this Act” and “carry out other functions and activities as the Secretary determines to be necessary to carry out this section.” Also see: House passes funding bill establishing FDA office in Abraham Accords region (Jewish News Syndicate 2/4/26)

AIPAC statement 2/3/26:  Congress Demonstrates Overwhelming Support for Israel

Today, Congress sent a powerful message about the strength and vibrancy of the U.S.-Israel alliance, providing more than $4 billion for vital security assistance and cooperative programs. This funding makes America safer, stronger, and more prosperous, and ensures our democratic ally can defend itself from our shared enemies.

We applaud the Republicans and Democrats who worked together to fully fund the U.S.-Israel Memorandum of Understanding, including $3.3 billion in security assistance and $500 million for missile defense cooperative programs including Iron Dome and Arrow.

In this bill, the House and Senate also ensured that America works together with Israel to confront 21st century security challenges. New funding partnerships in counter-drone, counter-tunnel, directed energy, and other emerging technologies will bolster America’s capabilities and ensure that we are working with Israel to be on the cutting edge in these fields. The bill includes:

  • $47.5 million for U.S.-Israel emerging technology cooperation, an increase of $27.5 million.
  • $75 million for U.S.-Israel counter-drone and directed energy investment, an increase of $20 million.
  • $80 million for U.S.-Israel anti-tunnel defense cooperation, an increase of $32.5 million.

In addition, many other bipartisan pro-Israel provisions are in the bill, including:

  •  A complete ban on funding to UNRWA, the Hamas-affiliated U.N. agency in Gaza, whose members participated in the October 7th massacre.
  • A prohibition on funds to the International Criminal Court (ICC), the International Court of Justice (ICJ), and the U.N. Human Rights Council’s Commission of Inquiry (COI) against Israel, demonstrating American opposition to international bodies that abuse their platforms to target Israel and threaten U.S. personnel.
  • $37.5 million for the Nita Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act (MEPPA), supporting economic cooperation and people-to-people peacebuilding.
  • $3 million for U.S.-Israel international development cooperation.

AIPAC appreciates the pro-Israel leadership demonstrated by House and Senate leaders from both parties, including Speaker Mike Johnson, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries, Senate Majority Leader John Thune, and Senate Democratic Leader Chuck Schumer, who worked together to strengthen and expand the U.S.-Israel relationship. We also thank the leadership of Representatives Tom Cole (R‑OK), Rosa DeLauro (D‑CT), Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL), Lois Frankel (D-FL), Ken Calvert (R-CA), and Betty McCollum (D-MN), and the work of their colleagues in the Senate, including Senators Susan Collins (R‑ME), Patty Murray (D‑WA), Lindsey Graham (R‑SC), Brian Schatz (D‑HI), Mitch McConnell (R-KY), and Chris Coons (D‑DE). 

Congress once again came together to send an unequivocal and bipartisan message of support for Israel and the U.S-Israel relationship. This strong bipartisan support reflects that the enduring partnership between the United States and the Jewish state remains stronger than ever. 

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Re: bills covered in previous Round-Ups:

2. Letters

  • (TARGETING MAYOR MAMDANI FOR REVOKING IHRA DEFINITION) 2/4/26: Chair Cassidy Launches Oversight into Zohran Mamdani Emboldening Antisemitism, Endangering Jewish New Yorkers [letter text]. The letter is 100% focused on the enforcing the IHRA definition of antisemitism. It suggests – incorrectly – that Mamdani is wrong in saying that “a number of leading Jewish organizations have immense concerns around [the IHRA] definition” [they have]. It goes on to suggest that, based on Trump’s 2019 EO on antisemitism (which invokes the IHRA definition with respect to Title VI), Mamdani’s rescinding of Mayor Adams’s EO adopting the IHRA definition (an EO Adams signed more than 5 years after Trump’s EO) “risks misalignment with federal antisemitism policy and may hinder the U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights’ enforcement of Title VI.” The letter warns that this could jeopardize “$2.2 billion in total federal funding” for New York City. The letter goes on: “Decisions by your administration that weaken established safeguards for Jewish students in New York and are out of alignment with federal executive orders warrant careful scrutiny,” and demands that Mamdani answer, by February 19, a list of IHRA-related questions. For a superb analysis on what this letter is really about, see: Senator Cassidy’s IHRA Crusade Is a Political Stunt, Not a Plan to Protect Jews (Kevin Rachlin/Nexus in the Times of Israel 2/5/26). Also see varying degrees of credulous/breathless reporting on the letter from:  New York Post,  Washington Times, Times of Israel, New York Jewish Week, Jewish News Syndicate, Jewish Insider, Politico, Arutz Sheva. Also see X-post from CIP’s Dylan Williams: “Please reconsider this tawdry political stunt. Mamdani revoked the last orders of a corrupt mayor, including IHRA definition and anti-boycott measures. Those orders harmed free speech and the fight against antisemitism, endangering Jewish Americans to quash criticism of Israel.”
  • (IMPLEMENT REWARDS FOR TERRORISM WHISTLEBLOWERS) 2/3/26: Grassley, Fetterman Urge Implementation of Whistleblower Program to Fight Money Laundering [letter text]. Also see: Grassley, Fetterman urge Treasury to implement whistleblower program to combat terror financing (Jewish News Syndicate 2/4/26)
  • (ATTACKING PROGRESSIVES FOR NOT PROTESTING OVER IRAN): On 2/2/26 Jewish Insider published: Reps. Gottheimer, Tenney, Golden blast progressive groups over silence on Iranian violence against demonstrators. The article reports on a their letter attacking the League of Conservation Voters, Democratic Socialists of America, Sierra Club, Council on American-Islamic Relations, Jewish Voice for Peace, Queers for Liberation, Sunrise Movement and Justice Democrats. The letter argues “Over the last two years, you have shown no hesitation in loudly and unequivocally condemning our democratic ally Israel, after terrorists brutally raped, burned alive, decapitated, and murdered more than 1,200 people, including dozens of Americans. Yet, as the Iranian regime guns down peaceful protesters, tortures dissidents, and shuts off the internet to hide its crimes, your voices are unfortunately and conspicuously silent.“ NOTE: This letter is amplifying a transparent “whatabout-ist” straw man argument, predicated on the manifestly false assertion that protests of the Gaza genocide have merely been about criticizing Israel. In reality, those protests centered on specific/concrete calls to END SUPPORT FOR AND COMPLICITY WITH ISRAEL’S GAZA GENOCIDE — BY THE U.S. GOVERMENT, CONGRESS, U.S. UNIVERSITIES, U.S. BUSINESSES, THE U.S. TECH SECTOR, U.S. WEAPONS COMPANIES, AT THE UN, etc. In contrast, in the case of the Iranian regime’s heinous treatment of Iranian protesters, there is no U.S. complicity to protest, given longstanding, far-reaching U.S. sanctions targeting virtually every avenue for potential U.S. engagement with Iran, & the U.S. government and Congress are already all-in in support of the protesters. 

3. Hearings & Markups

February 10, 2026: The House Foreign Affairs Committee will hold a hearing entitled, Syria at a Crossroads: U.S. Policy Challenges Post. Witnesses will be: James Jeffrey, WINEP; Andrew J. Tabler, WINEP; Nadine Maenza, Former Chair of the U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom; and Mara Karlin, Brookings Institution.

February 10, 2026: The House Judiciary Committee’s Subcommittee on the Constitutions and Limited Government will hold a hearing entitled, “Sharia-Free America: Why Political Islam & Sharia Law Are Incompatible with the U.S. Constitution.” Witnesses have not yet been announced.

February 10, 2026: The House Ways and Means Committee will hold a hearing entitled, “Foreign Influence in American Non-profits: Unmasking Threats from Beijing and Beyond.” Witnesses have not yet been announced.

February 4, 2026: The House Foreign Affairs Committee held a hearing entitled, “Defending Religious Freedom Around the World” [hearing video]. Witnesses were: Sam Brownback, Former US Ambassador at Large for International Religious Freedom (statement); Grace Drexel, Daughter of Pastor Ezra Jin (statement); and Stephen F. Schneck, Former Chair, US Commission on International Religious Freedom (statement). Also see: Former U.S. religious freedom ambassador warns of genocide of Syrian minorities (Jewish Insider 2/4/26).

  • NOTE: Rep. Fine (R-FL) took over as chair of the hearing starting around 1:35:44 in the proceedings. On-brand, as ever, Fine took the opportunity to deliver a rant against “moderate Islam” (including taking a shot at Palestinians by suggesting that the decrease in the Christian population in the West Bank is due to fear of Muslims, and suggesting that the Christian population inside Israel has flourished since 1948). He closed by tossing a bash-Europe-and-Muslims-in-the-name-of-Jewish-safety final question to Brownback. Fine’s statement: “I believe the greatest threat to religious freedom in the world is the rise of mainstream Islam. And I call it mainstream Islam because I think we’re calling it “radical Islam” is attempt to minimize the threat that it exists. The radical Muslims are the ones who don’t want to kill us. They do exist. Not all Muslims are bad, but I think that we use that to minimize the threat. And I believe it’s the largest threat because it’s religiously motivated. When China or Russia or other countries persecute religions, they’re doing it in the pursuit of political power. When they no longer believe it is good for them to get political power, they will stop. Whereas the rise of mainstream Islam is based on religion. It is a belief that is deeply held and is why we have to fight it. So I and by the way, we see this threat in the United States. The leading civil rights organization for mainstream Muslims in the United States, the Council on American Islamic Relations, argued in the state of Texas that three Muslim children had the right to attempt to destroy a Christian church because they were practicing their first amendment rights. That is how they tried to get them out of being criminally prosecuted. So I find it very troubling when there ends up being a focus on Israel, a country that I would note where the Christian population has risen dramatically since the creation of the state of Israel. Whereas if you look at a place like Bethlehem where Jesus was born, the Christian population has dropped from 85% to under 10%. It is not because Christians did not want to live near the birthplace of Jesus. It was because they no longer felt safe to be there. So I have a question for Ambassador Brownback if you don’t mind. I introduced a bill, the Peace Act, which passed unanimously out of the out of the Foreign Affairs Committee that directs the State Department to coordinate with our allies to protect the rights of Jews in Europe to practice their faith, a place where we have seen dramatic increases in antisemitism, again, as we’ve seen the rise of mainstream Islam come to Europe. Muslim terrorists are openly targeting people because they are quote ‘visibly Jewish.’ Are you confident in our European allies protecting religious freedom? They seem to be interested in potentially legalizing cousin marriage or or banning New Year’s Eve, because that might offend certain religions. But are you confident our European European allies protecting other religions? Because what’s happening in Europe is certainly very concerning to me.” For more on religious freedom as it relates to Christians in Israel/West Bank/Gaza, see: Jerusalem churches denounce Christian Zionism as betrayal of faith (New Arab 1/20/26); Christians under increased pressure in West Bank (Baptist Standard 2/4/26); Christian leaders blame Israel for dwindling number of Christians in Holy Land (Detroit Catholic 9/30/25); Violence against Christians is on the rise in Israel (Armenian Weekly 9/11/25); Christian communities in Israel face growing hostility, annual report reveals (EWTN News 3/29/25); Rossing Center presents report on life of Christians in the Holy Land (Vatican News 4/1/25); It is a myth that in the Middle East Christians are only thriving in Israel (Christian Daily 9/30/25); ‘They are trying to make it unbearable’: Jerusalem Christians face Easter under Israeli crackdown (The Guardian 4/18/25); Christians in Jerusalem face restrictions, violence amid holy celebrations (National Catholic Reporter 6/2/25). Also see X-post by Agora’s Khalil Sayegh, responding to Fine: “I am a Christian from the Holy Land. I studied Christian theology in Bethlehem and served at a local church for over 7 years. I was beaten by the Israeli military, denied access to Christian holy sites, and separated from my family in Gaza for years. These policies are driving Christians out. Do you mind commenting on these policies?“

February 3, 2026: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee’s Subcommittee on Near East, South Asia, Central Asia, and Counterterrorism held a hearing entitled, “Countering Terrorism in North Africa: Opportunities and Challenges” [hearing video]. Witnesses were: Robert J. Palladino, official in the Department of State’s Bureau of Near Eastern Affairs (statement); and Lt. Col. (Ret.) Joel Borkert, Department of State’s Bureau of Counterterrorism (statement). Also see: Jewish Insider 2/4/26: Ted Cruz takes aim at Iran-backed Polisario Front for threatening U.S. interests in North Africa [“The Texas senator has drafted legislation to designate the group as a foreign terrorist organization ‘if there’s no change in their behavior’“]

February 3, 2026: The House Foreign Affairs Committee’s Middle East and North Africa Subcommittee held a hearing entitled “U.S. Policy Toward Lebanon: Obstacles to Dismantling Hezbollah’s Grip on Power” [hearing video]. The hearing showcased a wide array of views/perspective with…three witness ALL FROM THE WASHINGTON INSTITUTE FOR NEAR EAST POLICY, aka WINEP [seriously]: David Schenker (statement), Hanin Ghaddar (statement), and Dana Stroul (statement). Also see:

February 3, 2026: The Commission on Security & Cooperation in Europe (CSCE) held a hearing entitled, “Securing Syria’s Transformation by Diminishing Russia’s Influence” [hearing video]. Witnesses were: Anna Borschevskaya, WINEP [yes, WINEP will have FOUR people testifying on the Hill on 2/3/26] (testimony),  Michael Doran, The Hudson Institute; and Richard Outzen, The Atlantic Council. Also see: Lawmakers, witnesses push back on Syria sanctions effort, urge Turkish-Israeli rapprochement (Jewish Insider 2/4/26); US lawmaker: Türkiye backs removal of Russian military bases from Syria (Caliber 2/4/26)

4. Selected Members on the Record

Israel/Palestine & related

  • Cornyn (R-TX) 2/5/26: X-post – “It is truly sad to watch @tuckercarlson parade around the Middle East attacking Israel. America has no better friend than Israel.”
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 2/5/26: X-post – “Congratulations to Deni Avdija, the first Israeli to ever be named an NBA All-Star! After a breakout season, his selection marks a historic moment for Israel and the NBA, and I look forward to watching him compete with the best players in the world at the All-Star Game!”
  • Sherman (D-CA) 2/5/26: X-post – “Via @Forbes— ‘Brad Sherman: There Is An ‘Historic Opportunity’ To Disarm Hezbollah In Wake Of Israel-Hamas War‘”
  • Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) 2/4/26: X-post – “After October 7, I shared photos of every Israeli hostage outside my office as a reminder of the need to bring them home. Now that the remains of Ran Gvili, the last hostage in Gaza, are returned, I can finally take their pictures down. Their stories will never be forgotten.“
  • McCormick (R-PA) 2/4/26: X-post – “I condemn the pro-Hamas protest that took place this week in Philadelphia. It was filled with rank antisemitism and calls for violence. It has no place in Pennsylvania or anywhere.” Linked to Times of Israel 2/2/26 article – Philly Jewish groups condemn support for terror, ‘incitement to violence’ at anti-Israel protest
  • Diaz-Balart (R-FL) 2/4/26: X-post – “Honored to have met with Israel’s Foreign Minister @gidonsaar, @DeputySecState Christopher Landau, @RepMariaSalazar, and key partners from across the Western Hemisphere. The growing alliance between the United States, Israel, and Latin America is strengthening the cause of freedom and advancing our shared security and democratic values.“
  • Diaz-Balart 2/4/26: X-post – “Proud that my FY26 NSRP legislation, signed into law by President @realDonaldTrump stands firmly with Israel while promoting freedom and security across the Americas.“
  • Risch (R-ID) 2/3/26: X-post- “As President Trump has said, Israel is a model ally that demonstrates how countries can make the world safer for Americans when we supply them with the weapons they need. Republicans approved this sale long ago, but Democrats held them up and are now pitching a fit. I’m very supportive of the Administration’s decision to send weapons to our ally, Israel.”
  • Ciscomani (R-AZ) 2/3/26: X-post – “This weekend, Laura and I welcomed Israel’s Ambassador to the U.S. Dr. Yechiel Leiter to Tucson. Meaningful dialogue and the opportunity to highlight the deep, values-based bond between the U.S. and Israel. Proud to support our strongest ally in the Middle East.“
  • Doggett (D-TX) 2/3/26: X-post – “Pleased to meet with Rabbi Kelly Levy, Sarah Avner, and Jewish high school students from Austin’s Congregation Beth Israel. Joined by Rabbi @JonahPesner from @TheRAC, we discussed shared support for reproductive care, humane immigration, and a just two-state solution for Israelis and Palestinians.”
  • Bacon (R-NE) 2/2/26: X-post – “The BDS movement seeks to isolate and defeat Israel, the only democracy in the region. Israel is our best ally in the region as well. The BDS movement is fueled by anti-Semitic hate. I strongly encourage UNL students to oppose. Nebraska Nice is not with the haters.“
  • Kiggans (R-VA) 2/1/26: X-post – “While in Israel, I had the opportunity to visit our servicemembers at the Civil-Military Coordination Center (CNCC), a U.S.-led coordination hub established following last October’s ceasefire. The CNCC plays a critical role in intelligence sharing and in coordinating U.S. forces, partner militaries, and humanitarian organizations to deliver aid to Gaza and support stability and reconstruction in the region.“

Israel/AIPAC in US Elex

  • Massie (R-KY) 1/31/26: X-post – “Within hours of the Epstein file release, a superPAC funded by Israel-first billionaires Miriam Adelson, Paul Singer, and John Paulson, who himself appears in Epstein’s black book, bought another $800,000 of TV ads against me. I’ll still win, but if I lose, it was worth it.”

Iran

  • Kennedy (R-LA) 2/5/26: X-post – “For years, Iran has exported terrorism. It can’t do that anymore. Why? Because the United States and Israel have given Iran and its friends a CURB-STOMPING.“
  • Britt (R-AL) 2/2/26: X-post – “With Operation Midnight Hammer, @POTUS sent a message to the world on how important it is to dismantle Iran’s nuclear program, and that our military capabilities are second to none. As the murderous Ayatollah regime continues to slaughter innocent men, women, and children who are standing up to tyranny, they would be wise to remember that when our President speaks, he means what he says.“
  • Sullivan (R-AK) 2/2/26: X-post – “We need to continue to stand with the brave young men and women of Iran. The terrorist regime in Iran would be wise to heed the President’s warnings.“
  • Rosen (D-NV) 2/2/26: X-post – “After the recent, historic protests in Iran against the regime, it is clearer than ever that internet access is a lifeline for the Iranian people. This is why there has long been strong, bipartisan support for U.S. efforts that support Iranian internet freedom. @SenatorLankford and I, along with @SenBooker and @LindseyGrahamSC, are urging Secretary Rubio to continue and grow programs that help the Iranian people access the internet and communicate with the outside world.“
  • Mullin (R-OK) 2/1/26: X-post – “President Trump is 100% right on Iran— the murderous Ayatollah regime has chanted “death to America” since 1979. Without question, @POTUS makes America and the world is safer with his ‘peace through strength’ foreign policy. We stand with the freedom-loving people of Iran.“
  • Budd (R-NC) 2/1/26: X-post – “.@POTUS has been clear: Iran cannot obtain a nuclear weapon. We must enforce sanctions that restrict Iran’s ability to fund terrorism against us & our ally Israel, and dismantle the regime’s ballistic missile program.“
  • Gottheimer (D-NJ) 1/31/26: X-post – “Glad to see that the EU came to their senses and will designate the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps a terrorist organization, as I have urged them to do for years. The IRGC has carried out acts of terror against the U.S. and our allies, and is responsible for the killing of thousands of protesters in the streets of Iran this month. We all must condemn IRGC and its actions.”
  • Fallon (R-TX) 1/31/26: X-post – “Any regime that murders thousands of its own people doesn’t deserve any sort of appeasement. The EU finally designated Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization — a decisive step for Europe and long overdue. The IRGC’s brutality must not be emboldened.“
  • Wilson (R-SC) 1/31/26: X-post – “To Iran’s puppets in Iraq and to Nouri Maliki: You are insulting President Trump. Try that out, test your luck, and see what happens Free Iraq from Iran Free Iran“
  • Bacon (R-NE) 1/31/26: X-post – “Iran with a nuclear weapon is not in America’s national interests. And, 609 American service members were killed in Iraq by Iran funded and led militias. And, we shouldn’t ignore the regime murdering tens of thousands of its own people.“

Syria

  • Wilson (R-SC) 1/30/26: X-post – “Grateful to President Trump, Secretary Rubio, and @USAmbTurkiye Tom Barrack for their tireless efforts in achieving this historic peace deal which will save lives and bring a better future for all Syrian communities.“

Lebanon

  • Graham (R-SC) 2/5/26: X-post – “I just had a very brief meeting with the Lebanese Chief of Defense General Rodolphe Haykal. I asked him point blank if he believes Hezbollah is a terrorist organization. He said, “No, not in the context of Lebanon.” With that, I ended the meeting. They are clearly a terrorist organization. Hezbollah has American blood on its hands. Just ask the U.S. Marines. They have been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by both Republican and Democrat administrations since 1997 – for good reason. As long as this attitude exists from the Lebanese Armed Forces, I don’t think we have a reliable partner in them. I am tired of the double speak in the Middle East. Too much is at stake.”

United Arab Emirates

  • Cleaver (D-MO) 2/2/26: X-post – “For years, America’s national security leaders objected to selling advanced AI chips to the UAE on a bipartisan basis. After the UAE sent hundreds of millions of dollars to the Trump and Witkoff families, this administration reversed course. The corruption is staggering.“
  • Landsman (D-OH) 2/2/26: X-post – “Trump gets $500 million in cash then approves deal sending advanced AI chips to UAE. Blatant corruption. He gets richer every day. You get poorer. That’s his presidency. America needs new leaders, and massive anti-corruption reforms.”
  • Murphy (D-CT) 2/2/26: X-post – “A UAE investor secretly gave Trump $187 million and his top Middle East envoy $31 million. And then Trump gave that investor access to sensitive defense technology that broke decades of national security precedent. Brazen, open corruption. And we shouldn’t pretend it’s normal.“
  • Bennet (D-CO) 2/2/26: X-post – “Just before Trump took office, a senior UAE official secretly bought a $500 million stake in Trump’s crypto venture – channeling millions to Trump family accounts. Later, the White House approved the sale of America’s most advanced AI chips to the UAE, despite serious national security concerns. Just last week, Republicans blocked my amendment to add common-sense guardrails that would prevent this blatant corruption. Transactions like these make the urgent need for ethics reforms abundantly clear.“
  • Murphy (D-CT) 2/1/26: X-post – “Trump reversed decades of national security objections to selling advanced AI chips to UAE. National security experts were alarmed. But there was a secret. Before the deal, UAE had sent $187M to the Trumps and $31M to the Witkoffs in secret payments. Mind blowing corruption.“
  • Van Hollen (D-MD) 2/1/26: X-post – “Foreign countries are bribing our president to sell out the American people.   Trump family businesses made $187 MILLION from this deal, and just months later he gave the UAE some of our most top-secret AI tech.   They are selling our national security to the highest bidder.”
  • Kamlager-Dove (D-CA) 2/1/26: X-post – “Trump is selling out U.S. national security for his personal financial gain. The UAE invested $500 million in Trump’s crypto company before he gave them access to hundreds of thousands of advanced AI chips. A company long flagged by U.S. intelligence is getting 100k of those chips. I tried to force an investigation into this apparent quid pro quo back in September—and Republicans shot it down. When Democrats take back the House in November, my first action as Chair of the Subcommittee with jurisdiction over export controls will be to launch an investigation into this staggering corruption.“

Unconcealed Islamophobia [incl targeting CAIR and MB]

Background: 12/18/25 – Reps. Roy, Self Launch Sharia Free America Caucus; 1/15/26 – Congressman Self and Congressman Roy’s Sharia Free America Caucus Surges in Congress, Adding Twenty-Four Members in Under One Month

  • Self (R-TX) 2/5/26: X-post – “A pastor from North Texas just told me his personal story from 2010, 16 years ago. He was in the old city of Jerusalem talking to a Muslim shopkeeper. When he told the shopkeeper the city he lived in, the shopkeeper said that he knew of that city and that ‘they were moving thousands of ‘brothers’ into Plano to start something called EPIC.’ The plan to dominate Texas with Sharia has been working for at least 16 years, undoubtedly longer. Wake up, Texas! We must defend our Texas heritage!“
  • Fine (R-FL) 2/4/26: X-post – “If you would like to live under Sharia law, you have 57 countries to choose from. The United States will NEVER be the 58th. If you do not agree with our ways, I will point you to the door.“
  • Roy (R-TX) 2/3/26: X-post – “Sharia-Free America Caucus Press Conference happening TODAY at 2pm ET/1PM CT. @RepKeithSelf Rep. Roy previews on @Bannons_WarRoom : ‘You’ve got people here who want to Islamify our country. They’re at war with our way of life. They want to undermine Western civilization. They want Sharia law to apply, and all of those things that will destroy our great country.’“
  • Self (R-TX) 2/3/26: X-post w/ video – “LIVE NOW: Sharia-Free America Caucus“
  • Miller (R-IL) 2/3/26: X-post – “I’m joining @RepKeithSelf and @RepChipRoy this afternoon for a press conference to address the growing threat of Sharia law in America. It is fundamentally incompatible with the Constitution and Western values. America must remain free from it. TUNE IN!”
  • Roy (R-TX) 2/3/26: X-post – “HAPPENING TODAY: Sharia-Free America Caucus Press Conference. 1 PM CT / 2 PM ET Watch live here on X. @RepKeithSelf, @SenTuberville, @GOPMajorityWhip, @RepAndyBiggsAZ, @RepEliCrane, @RepMarkHarrisNC, @RepScottPerry, @RepBarryMoore, @RepMichaelCloud, @RepBrandonGill, @AndyOgles, @RepMaryMiller, @Rep_Clyde, @RepBrecheen, @RepRalphNorman, @RepFine, @RepRussFulcher, @RepHaridopolos, @RepMillsPress“
  • Self (R-TX) 2/3/25: X-post – “Sharia operates by dominating and then eroding societies from within. We have to put a stop to this. DO NOT SHARIA MY TEXAS. DO NOT SHARIA OUR CHILDREN.“
  • Self (R-TX) 2/3/26: X-post – “No Sharia. No surrender. TODAY: Rep. Keith Self | Rep. Chip Roy | Sen. Tommy Tuberville and more Sharia-Free America Caucus Press Conference 1 PM CT / 2 PM ET Tune in. You won’t want to miss it.“
  • Biggs (R-AZ) 2/3/26: X-post – “Sharia Law has no place in our Constitutional Republic. It is completely antithetical to the principles upon which our Founders built this great nation.”
  • Miller (R-IL) 2/2/26: X-post – “Reminder: Sharia law stands in direct opposition to the U.S. Constitution. It’s fundamentally incompatible with American values and has no place in our country.“
  • Roy (R-TX) 2/2/26: X-post – “Rep. Roy on the need for the PAUSE Act: ‘Let’s make sure that we’re stopping adherence to Sharia law. Let’s make sure that we’re stopping the abuse of diversity visas and chain migration and H-1B’s. Let’s fix and reform the system and then we can have a debate.’“
  • Fine (R-FL) 2/2/26: X-post – “Tomorrow at 2:00 PM ET, I’ll be speaking at the first-ever Sharia-Free America Caucus press conference with @RepKeithSelf and @RepChipRoy. There is NO place for Sharia law in the United States. End of story. Don’t miss it.“
  • Self (R-TX) 1/30/26: X-post – “We will not stop until every American understands the dangers of Sharia. We have the legislation. We have the resolve. We will not back down. DEFEND THE WEST.“
  • Roy (R-TX) 1/30/26: X-post – “Rep. Roy on the rise of Sharia law: “They want to take Texas out so they can take America out, so they can Islamify the entire Western Hemisphere. They want to destroy everything that is good about our Judeo-Christian culture and Western civilization, and we’re playing freaking tiddlywinks while they’re trying to kill us.” @marklevinshow“
  • De La Cruz (R-TX) 1/30/26: X-post – “America is the greatest nation on earth, and I am dedicated to preserving the way of life that makes the American Dream possible for all. Proud to join the Sharia Free America Caucus alongside Rep. Keith Self and Rep. Chip Roy to ensure our nation’s laws remain rooted in the U.S. Constitution and upholds our principles of freedom and liberty for all!“

5. Selected Media

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – GENERAL

  • Jewish News Syndicate 2/5/26: AIPAC calls out Democratic lawmakers for ‘timidity’ on Iran killing teenage protesters NOTE: AIPAC is amplifying a transparent “whatabout-ist” straw man argument, predicated on the manifestly false assertion that protests, including from inside Congress, of the Gaza genocide have merely been about criticizing Israel. In reality, those protests centered on specific/concrete calls to END SUPPORT FOR AND COMPLICITY WITH ISRAEL’S GAZA GENOCIDE — BY THE U.S. GOVERMENT, CONGRESS, U.S. UNIVERSITIES, U.S. BUSINESSES, THE U.S. TECH SECTOR, U.S. WEAPONS COMPANIES, AT THE UN, etc. In contrast, in the case of the Iranian regime’s heinous treatment of Iranian protesters, there is no U.S. complicity to protest, given longstanding, far-reaching U.S. sanctions targeting virtually every avenue for potential U.S. engagement with Iran, & the U.S. government and Congress are already all-in in support of the protesters. 
  • The America Prospect 2/4/26: Big Money Is Back
  • Sludge 2/2/26: Crypto, AI, and AIPAC Set up to Smash Super PAC Spending Records
  • Jewish Insider 2/2/26: Pro-Israel candidates show strong fundraising in key races [“In many of the closely watched Democratic primaries pitting pro-Israel candidates against anti-Israel antagonists, both sides posted strong fundraising figures”]
  • Haaretz 2/1/26: AIPAC Gears Up for Midterm Election Cycle With $95 Million War Chest [“The pro-Israel group’s Super PAC has the most cash on hand since its establishment ahead of the 2022 midterms, and has already spent hundreds of thousands of dollars ahead of next week’s New Jersey Democratic primary“]
  • New York Times 2/1/26: The Richest 2026 Players: A.I., Crypto, Pro-Israel Groups and Trump [“A pro-Israel super PAC is bigger than ever. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee, the influential pro-Israel group, has spent aggressively in Democratic primary races in recent years to target candidates it views as opposed to the Jewish state. Now, at a time when tensions over Israel have divided both parties, particularly Democrats, AIPAC is cutting huge checks to get even more involved. The group moved $30 million to its allied super PAC, the United Democracy Project, last year. That super PAC raised $61.6 million in the second half of 2025 and entered this year with almost $96 million on hand, putting it among the best-funded outside groups in the country. The super PAC, which started in 2022, spent about $35 million in House primaries in the 2024 cycle. That amount appears to be chump change compared with the group’s potential 2026 budget.“]
  • NBC News 1/31/26: AI, crypto and Trump super PACs stash millions to spend on the midterms [“United Democracy Project, a pro-Israel group that’s aligned with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) raised more than $61 million from July through December and ended 2025 with almost $96 million banked away, the latest campaign finance reports show. The group wades into primaries on both sides of the aisle, but largely plays in Democratic contests…While United Democracy Project received a massive $30 million check from AIPAC, its second-biggest contributor was GOP megadonor Paul Singer. Donations from Singer and other prominent Republicans have been a point of contention for Democrats because of the group’s heavy involvement in their party’s primaries.”]
  • Haaretz 1/29/26: ‘I Don’t Think a Presidential Candidate Can Win a Democratic Primary by Taking AIPAC Money’ [“What does Mamdani’s win suggest about how Democratic primaries are changing around Israel? I think AIPAC is in a really bad spot. Their peak of political influence was helping defeat Cori Bush and Jamaal Bowman. It came at the right time, in the right districts. There’s a reason they didn’t try against Ayanna Pressley or Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez. But since public opinion really turned on what’s happening in Gaza, it’s increasingly becoming a litmus test for Democrats. I don’t think a 2028 presidential candidate can win a Democratic primary by taking AIPAC money. I’m not trying to be a prisoner of the moment, but it feels like a low ask at this point. And so many are ditching it, even moderate candidates. That puts someone like [Pennsylvania governor and Democratic presidential hopeful] Josh Shapiro in a difficult spot. I just don’t see a plurality or majority of primary voters in two years, three years, supporting a candidate that takes AIPAC money.”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New Jersey

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Illinois

  • American Prospect 2/6/26: AIPAC Coordinates Donors in Illinois House Primaries [“Three Democratic candidates are benefiting from dark-money super PACs, and they share hundreds of donors who have previously given to AIPAC and its subsidiaries.“]
  • Evanston Now 2/5/26: Andrew, Biss go on offense in lively forum [“…Biss also pushed Fine on AIPAC’s tacit support of her campaign for the first time publicly, in a response to questions about U.S.-Israeli relations after laying out his position on blocking military assistance to Israel, something Fine has said she disagrees with. ‘If that’s what you agree with,’ Biss said, ‘it should be very troubling that the overwhelming majority of Laura Fine’s donations come from AIPAC supporters, that she traveled the country in recent months, raising money from AIPAC, because she supports blank checks of military aid for Israel.’ Biss, son of an Israeli citizen with continued familial ties to the country, released a post last week after Evanston Now’s reporting about his communications with the powerful lobbying group early in the campaign, laying out what he described as the same policy position he submitted to AIPAC when asked about his stance on the issues…“]
  • The Daily Northwestern 2/5/26: Democratic congressional candidates spar over campaign donations at CSNA forum [“...In mid-January, Chicago 50th Ward Committeeperson Bruce Leon announced he would drop out of the race, following a months-long pressure campaign from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, the country’s largely pro-Israel lobbying group. Leon alleged that the group was attempting to consolidate support around Fine. AIPAC has not endorsed Fine, but the group has reportedly sent at least two fundraising emails on her behalf. At Wednesday’s forum, Biss routinely attacked Fine for her purported connection to AIPAC. While decrying Israel’s actions in Gaza, Biss said it should be ‘troubling’ to voters that Fine supports a ‘blank check of military aid for Israel’ and has allegedly received donations from AIPAC supporters. ‘That is deeply problematic,’ Biss said. ‘That is a right-wing policy that is bad for Palestinians, Jews, Israelis, America and the world.’ At that, Abughazaleh applauded. Abughazaleh took a more veiled strike at Fine in her remarks, suggesting that voters should be ‘looking at who supports unconditional military aid to Israel and who is backed by AIPAC.’ In her rebuttal, Fine focused on her record and experience as a legislator in Springfield, but did not address claims about her donors.“]
  • Politico 2/4/26: Illinois Playbook [“…SUPER PACs: We hear two super PACS are hitting the ground in Illinois today with big ad buys. Watch for ‘Elect Chicago Women’ to start running ads in the IL-08 and IL-09 congressional contests, endorsing Democrats Melissa Bean and Laura Fine respectively. Also on air: The “Affordable Chicago Now” committee will start running ads in the IL-02 congressional district race, supporting Democrat Donna Miller. Big money: The PACs have booked six figures’ worth of Chicago broadcast TV ads, via post. Who’s behind them? The super PACS are supported by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), according to two people familiar with campaigns.“]
  • NBC News 2/4/26: Secret money roils Democratic primaries
  • Jewish Insider 2/4/26: Major ad buys boost moderates facing anti-Israel challengers in Chicago-area House races [“The ad buys for the two groups add up to millions of dollars across the three races. Given that the groups were just launched, FEC filing policies will not require them to disclose their donors until close to Election Day. But the ads, which do not focus on Israel policy, are widely rumored to be connected to the United Democracy Project, the AIPAC-affiliated super PAC. UDP did not immediately respond to a request for comment, and AIPAC has not made formal endorsements in any of the races in question.  Fine has established herself as a supporter of Israel during her campaign, and Bean had a pro-Israel record in office. Miller’s public record on the issue is less established.“]
  • David Dayen (The American Prospect) 2/4/26: X-post – “AIPAC cash has popped up in the race to replace Robin Kelly in IL-02. The “Affordable Chicago Now” SuperPAC just organized a week ago & hasn’t identified any of its donors. The PAC is supporting Donna Miller, whose donors are primarily AIPAC donors…“
  • Times of Israel 2/3/26: Daniel Biss Deserves Pro-Israel Support
  • Chicago Tribune 2/3/26: Millions raised fuel fierce fights for 5 open Illinois congressional seats ahead of March primary [“…In recent months, Fine has seemingly received the tacit support of the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and many of its previous donors, though she has denied seeking the group’s endorsement. State Sen. Mike Simmons of Chicago, who had about $135,000 at the end of the quarter, criticized Fine this week for receiving significant backing from people who had also supported President Donald Trump or AIPAC, which advocates for Israel’s interests and supports both Democrats and Republicans. ‘If people who donate to AIPAC are donating to me, it’s because of the fact that they appreciate what I have done and my accomplishments, and they have faith in my candidacy, but I’m pretty darn independent,’ Fine said Monday.“]
  • Jewish Insider 2/3/26: Pro-Israel moderates hold momentum in several Chicago-area House races [“Former Rep. Melissa Bean emerged as the clear frontrunner in her old suburban Chicago district, while state Sen. Laura Fine looking formidable in race to succeed Rep. Jan Schakowsky”]
  • The Daily Northwestern 2/2/26: Abughazaleh, Biss, Fine lead fundraising as $11 million floods congressional race
  • Evanston Roundtable 2/1/26: Fine and Biss lead in cash, Abughazaleh raised and spent big entering 2026, disclosures show

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – New York

  • Politico 2/3/26: Suozzi, Gillen and Riley have a midterm $tash [“Reps. Tom Suozzi, Laura Gillen and Josh Riley are sitting on massive piles of campaign cash as they look to defend their battleground seats, bolstered by leadership PACs, joint fundraising committees and the pro-Israel advocacy group AIPAC…Meanwhile, in the state’s most competitive House race, GOP Rep. Mike Lawler reported a whopping $3.5 million in cash on hand. Like the incumbent Democrats, the Hudson Valley moderate is a prodigious fundraiser whose coffers are fortified by his victory fund, PACs seeking to keep Republicans in the majority and hundreds of thousands in AIPAC cash.”]
  • Jewish Insider 2/3/26: Mamdani, socialist allies face first electoral test in battle for NYC House seat [“The fight to succeed Rep. Nydia Velazquez pits Mamdani and the DSA faithful against the congresswoman and her protege”]
  • City & State NY 2/2/26: Mark Levine endorses Dan Goldman for Congress [“Levine’s endorsement didn’t mention either candidate’s orientation toward Israel, but Lander, Goldman and Levine are three of the city’s most prominent Jewish leaders, and each has been scrutinized by New Yorkers for their response to Israel’s war in Gaza. While Lander as comptroller chose not to reinvest roughly $40 million in Israeli government bonds after they matured, Levine, his successor in the office, has said he would buy Israeli bonds again. (Lander, who opposes the Boycott, Sanctions, Divestment movement, did invest public pension funds in Israeli companies, including the weapons company Elbit Systems.)“]
  • Jewish News Syndicate 2/2/26: NYC comptroller endorses Dan Goldman over city’s prior chief financial officer [“Lander has criticized Israel extensively and supported boycotting the Jewish state. Levine has said that the city should not divest from Israel Bonds, in direct opposition to the views of Zohran Mamdani, city mayor. Goldman has also supported Israel but has been very critical of the Israeli prime minister.“]
  • Columbia Spectator 2/1/26: Congressional contenders vying to replace Nadler gather for NY-12 candidate forum [“The eight contenders fielded questions from audience members, whose key concerns included the presence of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, American Israel Public Affairs Committee funding, and military aid to Israel.”]
  • New York Jewish Week 1/30/26: Ritchie Torres’ challengers are testing how Israel plays in the Bronx — and taking aim at ‘Zionists’ in a Jewish neighborhood

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – North Carolina

  • News & Observer 2/6/26: Valerie Foushee and Nida Allam post fundraising hauls in competitive NC-4 primary [“So far, the race isn’t shaping up to be as expensive as last time — perhaps, in part, due to Foushee’s new pledge not to accept donations from AIPAC, the pro-Israel group that funneled over $3 million toward electing her in 2022. And, unlike last time, Allam may actually have an edge over Foushee in fundraising.”]
  • WRAL 2/1/26: Can Trump, Stein picks survive NC primary elections? Races to watch [“A Democratic-leaning Congressional district in the Triangle features a rematch between Democrats who squared-off in a contentious primary in 2022. Durham County Commissioner Nida Allam is challenging U.S. Rep. Valerie Foushee, who is seeking a third term representing North Carolina’s 4th Congressional District…Foushee faced criticism that year for not rejecting outside spending on her behalf by the American Israel Public Affairs Committee…Foushee says she plans to reject financial support from AIPAC, if it’s offered this year. She told WRAL News: ‘I am not accepting AIPAC donations and have co-sponsored legislation to block arms sales to Israel because it is clear to me and my constituents that the Netanyahu government’s indiscriminate killing of innocent Palestinians cannot continue.’ Foushee added that she has also demanded that Israel allow humanitarian aid to reach starving Palestinians. Stein and Cooper endorsed Foushee in the race. The primary could shed light on how much or how little those endorsements — and Foushee’s actions on Israel — matter to voters in one of the most progressive parts of the state.”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Nebraska

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Texas

  • The Intercept 2/4/26: He’s Running to Fill Jasmine Crockett’s House Seat From Her Left. He’s Also Her Pastor. [“The 65-year-old Dallas pastor has already attracted some national attention for his outspoken criticism of Israel’s genocide in Gaza, putting him at odds with many of his peers in Texas and the Deep South, where an open affinity between right-wing Christianity and pro-Israel Zionism is common. That stance also marks an apparent difference between him and Crockett. While Haynes is running on ending U.S. military support for Israel and the genocide in Gaza, Crockett has drawn criticism for voting to send U.S. military aid to Israel and taking a trip there as a first-term member of Congress in August 2023 with the American Israel Public Affairs Committee and the Israel Defense Forces. “]
  • Austin Weekly News 2/3/26: Who is the front runner in 7th CD race? Hard to say. [“…Showalter took the opportunity to blast two of the front runners. ‘Jason Friedman will answer to AIPAC (the America Israel Public Affairs Committee),’ he wrote… The issue of AIPAC-funded congressional candidates has been a flash point in several Illinois congressional contests. Friedman was pointedly called out by a questioner at a recent Democratic Party of Oak Park presentation in January and heckled loudly by another audience member regarding AIPAC. “]
  • Texas Tribune 2/2/26: After two Houston Congress members died in office, Al Green defends his seniority to voters [“...Green also said he expects to get outspent in the primary and that, given there are three prominent candidates, it will go to a runoff. The elongated timeline, he said, will allow monied interests to try and push him out — including, he speculated, the American Israel Public Affairs Committee, or AIPAC. The group spent millions in Democratic primaries last cycle to successfully push out two lawmakers critical of Israel. ‘AIPAC is willing to spend inordinate amounts of money to get me out of office,’ said Green, who has voted against sending military aid to Israel.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Pennsylvania

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Connecticut

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – South Carolina

  • The Algemeiner 2/3/26: South Carolina Republican Senate Candidate Floats Antisemitic Conspiracies in Effort to Boost Long-Shot Campaign [“…’I’m America first and not Israel first, not Ukraine first. We always have to ask what is in the foreign policy interest of the United States citizen. How are we helping the people back home thrive and be safe?” Dans said during an October 2025 interview with South Carolina local news.’…Dans also appeared on ‘The Tucker Carlson Show’ in November 2025, in which he and the podcaster criticized US Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC) for his steadfast support for Israel, insinuating that Graham focuses more on uplifting Israel than the US.”]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maryland

  • The Hill 2/4/26: Harry Dunn launches second Maryland House bid, this time for Hoyer’s seat [“One looming question over the race is whether the pro-Israel American Israel Public Affairs Committee’s (AIPAC) super PAC gets involved in his primary. The super PAC, United Democracy Project, supported Elfreth in the primary in 2024, and Hoyer is a key ally of AIPAC’s.“]

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Maine

Israel/AIPAC in US elex & politics – Kentucky

More US Weapons/Aid for Israel!

  • Politico 2/4/26: How Israel is navigating its next bid for US funding [“Israel is seizing on a moment when lawmakers appear ready to resume business as usual after the Biden administration paused a limited number of bomb shipments. Responding Tuesday to a new $7 billion arms sales package to Israel, Senate Foreign Relations Chair JIM RISCH (R-Idaho) praised the deal and dinged the Dems. ‘Republicans approved this sale long ago, but Democrats held them up and are now pitching a fit,’ he wrote…Some Democrats continue to call for more accountability for Israel. Sen. JEFF MERKLEY (D-Ore.) told NatSec Daily he’d oppose a new deal with offensive weapons transfers unless Israel changed its conduct. But one Democratic House aide, granted anonymity to speak frankly about internal discussions, told your anchor that the party was prioritizing other emergencies. On Gaza, the aide said, following the nominal ceasefire brokered by the Trump administration, ‘everyone started to tune out.’“]
  • DropSite 2/2/26: $6B arms deal to Israel bypassed Congress; U.S. signals “readiness” for Iran talks; Last U.S.-Russia nuclear treaty set to expire
  • Jewish Insider 2/1/26: Meeks says Trump WH sidestepped congressional review on arms sale to Israel [“The administration announced a $6 billion arms sale to Israel on Friday, in a move Meeks said ‘blatantly ignored long-standing Congressional prerogatives’”]

Saudi Arabia, Iran

New Attack on Rep. Tlaib

Other stuff

  • Jewish Insider 2/6/26: Lindsey Graham hints at reducing U.S. support for Lebanese Armed Forces over general’s Hezbollah stance
  • Jewish News Syndicate 2/6/26: Graham ends meeting with Lebanese army chief over Hezbollah stance
  • Atlantic Council 2/5/26: Washington’s UNRWA report shows how public discourse is divorced from reality [“Critics of UNRWA are not wrong to identify real vulnerabilities. The agency operates under extraordinary political pressure, relies on host-authority curricula it does not control, and faces genuine challenges enforcing neutrality among a locally recruited workforce of Palestinians living largely under conflict conditions in Gaza and the West Bank. Oversight mechanisms, while extensive, are imperfect, and implementation gaps are real. There is evidence to suggest that there is influence by staff members who are aligned with Hamas, something that UNRWA has attempted to address, but cannot avoid due to the political realities of the population from which it draws its employees, particularly in Gaza. Where critics often overreach is in treating these constraints as evidence of institutional intent or systemic failure. House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Brian Mast, for example, claimed that UNRWA ‘is literally funneling American tax dollars to terrorism,’ while Rep. Ritchie Torres called UNRWA ‘long a purveyor of anti-Israel, and anti-Jewish hate.’ The GAO tells a different story. Through their interviews with UNRWA educators, administrators, students, and diplomatic leaders in the US Embassy, the Israeli Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the PA Ministry of Education, and UNRWA leadership and field staff, GAO staff collected significant data and input. Their report, analyzing US funding for assistance, the extent to which UNRWA and the US State Department identified and addressed problematic content, and the extent to which the State Department reported accurately to Congress, does not find sufficient evidence to substantiate claims that UNRWA’s education programs functioned as vehicles for incitement during the period reviewed, nor that US funds were misused.“]
  • Armenian Weekly 2/4/26: When lobbying collides: Azerbaijan, Israel and Armenian American advocacy