FMEP Legislative Round-Up: June 17, 2022

Resource

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

 

1. Bills, Resolutions & Letters

(IN THE FY23 NDAA — LEVERAGING ABRAHAM ACCORDS TO PROMOTE REGIONAL ANTI-IRAN “DEFENSE ARCHITECTURE”) S. XXXX: On 6/17/22, Jewish Insider reported: “The National Defense Authorization Act draft finalized by the Senate Armed Services Committee yesterday includes the Abraham Accords Caucus’ DEFEND Act [HR 7987 & S. 4366, covered in detail in last week’s Round-Up], which orders the secretary of defense to explore creating an integrated Middle East air- and missile-defense infrastructure that includes Israel and numerous Arab states.” Stay tuned for next week’s Round-Up for full analysis of Israel/Middle East-related elements in the Senate Armed Services Committee’s draft of the FY23 NDAA legislation. Also see:

(TARGETING UN COMMISSION OF INQUIRY ON ISRAEL) S. 4389 (text): Introduced 6/14 by Scott (R-SC) and Rosen (D-NV) [and no other cosponsors], “the Commission of Inquiry (COI) Elimination Act,” aka, “A bill to provide for the abolition of certain United Nations groups, and for other purposes.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. The bill — which is similar but not identical to HR 7223 (introduced in the House back on 3/24/22, and currently having 34 cosponsors — see the 3/25/22 and  4/1/22 editions of the Round-Up for details) would withhold from the US contribution to the UNHRC “25 percent of the amount budgeted for the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in Israel, unless the Secretary of State submits to Congress a certification that the United Nations Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, including East Jerusalem, and in Israel has been abolished.” Also see:

  • Scott press release (which among other things notes: “The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) supports this legislation.” Also see: AIPAC tweet
  • Scott (R-SC) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “While brutal dictators commit human rights violations with impunity across the globe, the UN Human Rights Council is unjustly targeting Israel—the Middle East’s only democracy. @SenJackyRosen & I are working to stop the discriminatory UNHRC investigation”
  • Rosen (D-NV) 06/14/2022: Twitter thread – “The @UN_HRC Commission of Inquiry unfairly holds Israel to a standard not imposed on any other country, does nothing to advance the prospects for peace between Israel and Palestinians, and undermines their credibility to investigate human rights violations around the world. We must oppose biased attacks against Israel, which is why @SenatorTimScott and I are introducing a bipartisan bill to make it U.S. policy to work to abolish this one-sided Commission.”
  • NOTE: Jewish Insider published a piece 6/15/22 putting the spotlight on HR 7223 (suggesting that the bill is picking up steam in terms of support and noting that AIPAC this week is holding its first in-person National Council meeting in Washington since the start of the pandemic.  JI reported: “AIPAC-affiliated activists are on Capitol Hill this week to lobby more than 300 congressional offices on several measures, including the COI Elimination Act, an individual familiar with the matter told JI.”
  • Notably, as of this writing (at 2:25pm on 6/17/22) and following days of AIPAC lobbying, HR 7223 has 49 cosponsors – 40 Republicans, 9 Democrats; the Senate version hasn’t yet picked up any cosponsors).
  • Joining AIPAC in pressuring on this issue, FDD had an op-ed in the New York Post 6/14/22: The UN continues Israel-bashing after Biden promised to stop it

(US-ISRAEL DRONE COOPERATION) S. 4397: Introduced 6/14/22 by Lankford (R-OK) and having no cosponsors, the “Strengthening Counter-Unmanned Aircraft Systems Operations (C-UAS) Partnerships Act.” Referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations. Per Lankford’s press release, this is legislation “to authorize the Secretary of Defense to bolster our work with our allies and increase training capacity in counter-unmanned aerial systems (C-UAS) with partners like Israel who also lead in this area.” [Note: this sure looks like something that is being introduced for the purposes of being added to the NDAA].

(TARGETING FOREIGN INFLUENCE) HR 8106: Introduced 6/16/22 by Golden (D-ME), Gosar (R-AZ), Porter (D-CA) and Gooden (R-TX), the “Fighting Foreign Influence Act.” Per the press release summarizing the legislation, this bill would (a) “require tax-exempt organizations, including think tanks, to publicly disclose any high-dollar gifts from foreign governments or foreign political parties. It then directs the Treasury Department to publish the total amount of such contributions from each foreign government and each foreign political party”; (b) “impose a lifetime ban on former senior U.S. military officers, presidents, vice presidents, other senior executive branch officials, and members of Congress from ever lobbying for a foreign principal”; and (c) “require political campaigns to verify that anyone making an online contribution has a valid US address (using credit cards’ three-digit CVV code) or are otherwise legally eligible to make a campaign contribution. This title would also prohibit foreign agents from fundraising for political campaigns.” The explanation for why this bill is necessary specifically mentions the current drama around alleged illegal lobbying on behalf of Qatar by John Allen (retired 4-star Marine general). Referred to the Committee on House Administration, the Committee on Ways and Means, and the Judiciary Committee.  Also see:

(SHUT DOWN USAID – BUT WITH NOD TO ISRAEL) Rand Paul amdt to HR 3967 (text): This week the Senate continued its work on HR 3967, the “Honoring our PACT Act of 2021.” As noted in last week’s Round-Up, this is a bill that (per the official summary) “addresses health care, presumption of service-connection, research, resources, and other matters related to veterans who were exposed to toxic substances during military service.” And again this week, Sen. Paul (R-KY) offered re-upped an amendment to add a provision stating: “During the 10-year period beginning on October 1, 2022, no Federal funds may be expended by the United States Agency for International Development other than funds that have been appropriated for Israel” — this time, seeking to add it to the amendment-in-the-nature-of-a-substitute that in effect was replacing the entire bill. Once again for the record: The government of Israel does not receive any USAID funding. It receives Foreign Military Financing, a small amount of Migration and Refugee Assistance, and additional funds via the Defense Appropriations bill. Yes, there is funding via USAID for “shared society” projects involving Israeli and Palestinians groups, under the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act (MEPPA), but that funding is not “appropriated for Israel.” So once again: Paul is giving a nod to support for non-existent Israel aid as cover for an effort to shut down USAID worldwide.

(SOMALILAND VS IRAN) S. 3861: Introduced 3/17/22 by Risch (R-ID) and having 3 cosponsors (including 1 Democrat), the “Somaliland Partnership Act.” Reported out of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee 6/14/22. Notably, the bill requires a report to Congress assessing (among other things), the extent to which Somaliland could “counter Iran’s presence in the Gulf of Aden and China’s growing regional military presence.”

LETTERS

(DON’T DOWNGRADE PENTAGON ENGAGEMENT WITH PALESTINIANS) Ossoff-Graham et al letter to SecDef: On 6/17/22, Sens. Ossoff (D-GA) and Graham (R-SC) led a letter, co-signed by 28 Senate colleagues (bipartisan), to SecDef Austin. The letter urges that “that the United States Security Coordinator (USSC) for Israel and the Palestinian Authority (PA) in Jerusalem remain an officer of three-star rank and not be downgraded below that level.” The letter states: “The USSC coordinates multilateral efforts toward peace and stability and serves as a critical liaison between Israeli and PA security forces. Downgrading this position would undermine U.S. leadership and credibility in a region where it is essential to have a high-ranking officer who can engage with other nations’ highest-level military leaders.” Recognizing that such downgrading may be driven by a requirement from Congress to reduce the aggregate number of flag and general officers, the letter also states “we urge you not to downgrade this position at a time when U.S. leadership in the region is critical, and we stand ready to work with you to amend the law as necessary to support this vital policy objective.” Also see:

(DON’T DOWNGRADE PENTAGON ENGAGEMENT WITH PALESTINIANS) Lankford letter to SecDef: On 6/16/22, Sen. Lankford (R-OK) sent a (lengthy) letter to SecDef Austin to voice his “strong support for the ongoing mission of the Office of the United States Security Coordinator for Israel and the Palestinian Authority (USSC) in Jerusalem, and to urge that the position continue to be filled by a general and flag officer (GFO).” Lankford also noted: “While I understand the congressionally-mandated requirement to reduce the number of active duty GFOs by 2023 per the FY2017 National Defense Authorization Act and appreciate the difficult choices as a result, the USSC is critical to Israeli security, U.S. interests in the Middle East, and stability in the region. I am concerned that downgrading the USSC’s rank will weaken the USSC’s mission and imperil U.S. security interests in the Middle East.” Also see: press release

(MIDDLE EAST ORIGIN IN US CENSUS) Maloney-Tlaib letter to heads of OMB & Census Bureau: On 6/14/22, Rep. Maloney (D-NY), Chair of the Committee on Oversight and Reform, and Rep. Tlaib (D-MI), member of that same committee, led a letter – signed by 16 other members of the Oversight Committee (all Democrats) – to Director of the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) Shalanda Young, and Director of the US Census Bureau Robert Santos. The letter asks OMB and the Census Bureau to “end the longstanding erasure of a group of our fellow Americans by adding the Middle Eastern or North African (MENA) response category to the decennial census and the Office of Management and Budget’s (OMB) standards for federal data on race and ethnicity. This long-overdue action would reverse a baseless decision by the Trump Administration—which overruled the Census Bureau’s recommendation to add a MENA category—and would ensure that this vibrant American community can receive crucial federal resources and support.” The letter also asks that “inclusion of a MENA category be paired with a commensurate increase in funding for programs serving the needs of communities of color across the country, since members of the Middle Eastern and North African community were previously excluded from these programs.” Also see:

2. Hearings

June 22, 2022: The House Appropriations Committee’s State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs Subcommittee will hold a markup of the FY 2023 Department of State, Foreign Operations, and Related Programs bill (aka, SFOPS).

June 22, 2022: The House Foreaign Affairs Committee’s Subcommittee on the Middle East, North Africa, and Global Counterterrorism will hold a hearing entitled, “Examining the U.S. Interest in Regional Security Cooperation in the Middle East and North Africa: Opportunities, Obstacles, and Objectives.” Scheduled witnesses (so far) will be: Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern Affairs Barbara Leaf; and Acting Assistant USAID Administrator for the Middle East Andrew Plitt.

June 22, 2022: The House Armed Services Committee will hold a mark-up of the FY23 Defense Authorization bill (HR 7900) (following subcommittee markups June 8-9, 2022).

June 13 & June 16, 2022: The Senate Armed Services Committee held CLOSED mark-ups (Round 1 – subcommittees; Round 2 – full committee) of the FY23 Defense Authorization Bill.

June 16, 2022: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a hearing to consider the nominations by President Biden of several individuals to Middle East-related positions: Tamara Cofman Wittes to be a USAID Assistant Administrator – nominated almost a year ago but stalled by SFRC Republicans (testimony); Michael Ratney to be US Ambassador to Saudi Arabia (testimony); and Timmy Davis to be US Ambassador to Qatar (testimony). Also see:

  • hearing video.
  • Notably, the Committee’s questions included significant focus on questioning Wittes’ views on the Abraham Accords and getting her, on the record, to attest to her total support for the Accords and her commitment to expanding them. She was also asked about the current controversy regarding Brookings (and whether she believed Qatar had influenced her work or the work of other Brookings scholars). Ratney was also asked for his views and the policies of the Biden Administration with respect to Saudi Arabia and the murder of Jamal Khashoggi.
  • Of special note: starting at 1:29:15 in the hearing, Sen. Cruz (R-TX) suggested that “the Democratic majority of this committee may have inadvertently convened a hearing on the profound anti-Israel bias of the Biden administration.” He then went on to aggressively attack both Ratney and Wittes. With respect to Ratney, Cruz picked up on a question/accusation from Sen. Hagerty, R-TN that Ratney was personally responsible for US funding going to an Israeli NGO that allegedly engaged in some political activities against then-Prime Minister Netanyahu, including stating, “it is one thing for Mr. Ratney to fund campaigns against the sitting prime minister of Israel”. He then launched a lengthy attack against Wittes: (a) arguing that her previous employment by Brookings and her work funded there by Qatar renders her untrustworthy as a steward of US aid/taxpayer funding — and in effect suggesting that even if she had nothing to do with that, the fact that her work was in part funded by Qatar is enough to render her unfit to serve; (b) attacking her views on the Abraham Accords (including calling her record on the Abraham Accords was “stunning”); and (c) attacking her for an alleged past statement regarding Egyptian president Sissi. He concluded (after dismissing all of her responses) by stating: “It is really stunning, the anti-Israel bias of senior nominees in this administration and it is inconsistent both with American national security interest and with standing with our friend and ally the state of Israel.”
  • Also see: USAID nominee Wittes says past skepticism over Abraham Accords was ‘wrong’ (Jewish Insider 6/17/22); ‘Funded by a Foreign Nation Who Is Not Our Friend’: Cruz Blasts Biden USAID Nominee for Taking Money From Qatar (Washington Free Beacon 6/16/22); In Biden Aid Nominee, Repressive Gulf Monarchy Found Enthusiastic Ally (Washington Free Beacon 6/15/22)
  • Cruz (R-TX) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @FreeBeacon – “Sen. Ted Cruz blasted a Biden USAID nominee for taking money from Qatar. Tamara Cofman Wittes is “funded by a foreign nation who is not our friend,” @tedcruz said during Wittes’ Senate confirmation hearing. Via @alanagoodman Republicans Blast Biden Aid Nominee for Qatar Work… | freebeacon.com”

June 15, 2022: The House Homeland Security Committee held a hearing entitled, “Current Status of ISIS and al Qaeda.”  Witnesses were: Samantha Vinograd, US Department of Homeland Security (statement not available); Karen Dowling, Directorate of Intelligence, National Counterterrorism Center (statement not available); and Timothy Langan, Federal Bureau of Investigation (statement not available). Also see: hearing video; opening statements – Chairwoman Slotkin (D-MI), Thompson (D-MS), Pfluger (R-TX)

June 15, 2022: The Senate Foreign Relations Committee held a CLOSED/Classified (TS/SCI) briefing, Update on Iran’s Nuclear Program and U.S. Strategy. Briefers were: Brett McGurk (NSC/Deputy Assistant to the President & North Africa Coordinator); Robert Malley (State Department Special Envoy for Iran); and “Official Briefer” (Office of the Director of National Intelligence). Also see: Senators skeptical an Iran deal will happen following latest classified briefing (Jewish Insider 6/16/22); Iran sanctions could tighten if nuclear talks fade, Biden admin officials tell senators (Politico 6/16/22)

 

3. On the Record

Media – General

The Guardian 6/16/22: Key Democrat warns of major security risk if US firm acquires NSO hacking code

Washington Free Beacon 6/15/22: From Peace Deal to Military Pact: Congress Wants Israel, Arab Allies To Unite Against Iran

Israel Hayom 6/13/22: Senate Foreign Affairs Committee approves Stop Iranian Drones Act

Jewish News Syndicate 6/12/22: Senate Foreign Affairs Committee approves Stop Iranian Drones Act

Jewish Press 6/12/22: 2 US Senators, 4 Congress Members Condemn ‘The Mapping Project’

Haaretz 6/12/22: Elizabeth Warren, Ed Markey Condemn BDS Group Project Mapping Boston Jewish Orgs

Times of Israel 6/11/22: Democrats, including Pressley, condemn pro-Palestinian mapping Boston Jewish groups

 

Media & Members – Elections

 

General

Haaretz 6/16/22: AIPAC-backed Republicans at Center of New Capitol Riot Revelations

Jewish Journal 6/16/22: Anti-AIPAC Hypocrisy Rooted in Ignorance

Pro-Israel America 6/16/22: Pro-Israel America Announces Manuel Rajunov as Board Chair

Arizona

Jewish Insider 6/15/22: Arizona GOP Senate candidate Mick McGuire: ‘I do not support a two-state solution’

Nevada

Titus (D-NV-1) 06/15/2022: Retweet of @DemMaj4Israel – “Congratulations to Congresswoman @DinaTitus on her primary victory to represent Nevada’s 1st district! She’s an accomplished leader and a proud supporter of the U.S.-Israel relationship. DMFI PAC is excited to continue supporting her in the general election. #NV01 Link to image”

Jewish Insider 6/13/22: All bets are off in the Republican congressional primary in Las Vegas

New York

Jewish Insider 6/13/22: Alessandra Biaggi distances herself from AOC on Israel

Michigan

Detroit Free Press 6/17/22: US Rep. Andy Levin isn’t anti-Israel, though he’s being portrayed that way

AIPAC 06/16/22: Tweet – “.@Andy_Levin’s own bill officially divides Jerusalem and places the Western Wall & Jewish Quarter in ‘occupied Palestinian territories.’ It separates Israel from Judaism’s holiest sites on all US government documents. That’s not pro-Israel. That won’t advance a 2state solution.”

Levin (D-MI-9) 06/13/2022: Retweet of @WaelAlzayat – “There has been a lot of coverage around anti-Palestinian money being spent to prevent progressives & progressive women of color from achieving public office in America. With the midterms well under way, we need to better understand the full extent of this funding. 1/7”

Levin (D-MI-9) 06/13/2022: Retweet of @matanarad – “AIPAC has set its sights on its next target: a progressive, anti-occupation, pro-worker Jewish member of Congress. If you believe in equality, justice, and democracy. join us tonight at 6pm ET for the Jews for @Andy_Levin…”

Levin (D-MI-9) 06/13/2022: Retweet of @WaelAlzayat – “In #MI11, @Andy_Levin has fought for worker’s rights as a union organizer and progressive causes as a Member of Congress. AIPAC has given more money to his opponent than nearly every other candidate this cycle. 4/7 Will AIPAC Crush One of Congress’s Most Prominent Jewish Democrats?… | prospect.org”

Middle East Monitor 6/13/22: US: new political committee plans to unseat Palestinian American politician

Washington Examiner 6/11/22: Lawmaker’s Israel record draws scrutiny from AIPAC in Michigan Democratic primary

The Intercept 6/10/22: New PAC Backed by Bakari Sellers Plans to Spend $1 Million to Unseat Rep. Rashida Tlaib

Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY-14) 06/10/2022: Twitter thread – “Y’all. Republicans are spending tons of money in Democratic primaries. GOP and insurrectionist funders are trying to buy races, including Dem ones. Do your research and DON’T just vote for whoever has the most ads. To “Dems” who welcomed this blood money: you should be ashamed. Link to quoted tweet A reminder that today (and any day) is a good day to donate to the ONLY Palestinian-American woman to ever serve in the United States Congress. Apparently to some, one is too many. Not to us. Protect her….@RashidaTlaib is also one of the most prolific field and turnout organizers in the entire Dem party. In a SWING STATE. Seeking to defeat ground game leaders out of spite and replace them w/ low-field candidates are risking disastrous consequences for us all. So short sighted.”

Illinois

Newman (D-IL-3) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @Leftists4Office – “June 15 Super PAC Filings DMFI $37k in Direct Mail against Marie Newman (IL06) Protect Our Future PAC $489k in Ads for Jonathan Jackson (IL01) It’s safe to say that we will not be joining Bernie Sanders in endorsing Jonathan Jackson, who wont even commit to M4All.”

Newman (D-IL-3) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @rayhanania – “#Listen @arabnews @RepMarieNewman & @Marie4Congress During appearance on @RayHanania Radio Wed @Marie4Congress @RepMarieNewman said foreign policies of Pres Biden are strong except when speaking out against #Israel government policies #Palestine Biden needs to find the ‘will’ to pursue Israel-Palestine peace, a… | arab.news   Link to image”

Jewish Insider 6/16/22: The mad rush to replace Bobby Rush

Newman (D-IL-3) 06/11/2022: Retweet of @Leftists4Office – “June 5 to June 9 Super PAC Filings DMFI PAC $33k in Direct Mail against Delia Ramirez (IL03) $37k in Direct Mail for Sean Casten (IL06) $3k in Direct Mail against Marie Newman (IL06) Protect Our Future PAC $251k in Ads for Nikki Buzinski (IL13)”

Wisconsin

Pocan (D-WI-2) 06/15/2022: In reply to Tweet – “@UWSinGA @repmarkpocan They are one of two groups that are new putting enormous money in campaigns, that’s why. Pretty simple. Link to reply @UWSinGA @repmarkpocan I hear you. It wasn’t the NRA. The other group is crypto-billionaires.”

Members on the Record

Concern for Palestinians

Levin (D-MI-9) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “I’m disheartened to see reports that protesters rallying peacefully to #SaveMasaferYatta were attacked by Israeli settlers and police. Such actions infringe severely on Palestinian human rights and push peace and a two-state solution further out of reach.”

Sanders (I-VT) 06/11/2022: Tweet – “Making Gaza’s beaches safe for swimming is a small but important step in addressing Gaza’s environmental and humanitarian crisis. We must continue to bring people together for these efforts in Palestine and across the region. Link to quoted tweet”

 

Opposing Office of Palestinian Affairs in Jerusalem

Hagerty (R-TN) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “Once again, it appears the Administration is trying to compromise America’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal and undivided capital. I unequivocally oppose Biden’s plan.Biden unravels peace process in Middle East…rolls back Trump policy on Palestinians | bizpacreview.com”

Hagerty (R-TN) 06/12/2022: Tweet – “This plan is inconsistent with the full and faithful implementation of the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 and suggests that the Administration is once again trying to undermine America’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal and undivided capital.Biden Admin Takes First Step Towards Redividing Jerusalem | freebeacon.com”

Roy (R-TX-21) 06/11/2022: Retweet of @VictoriaCoates – “It’s grimly comical that now any Palestinian who wants to access this abomination will have to travel to Tel Aviv to do so. This administration does not seem to understand Israel’s topography very well. Link to quoted tweet”

Roy (R-TX-21) 06/11/2022: Retweet of @VictoriaCoates – “This is just the sort of unfortunate nonsense emboldened by the US decision to open a rump mission to the Palestinians—and it will result in a negative impact on the Palestinians. What a disgrace. Link to quoted tweet”

Babin (R-TX-36) 06/10/2022: Tweet – “Biden’s failed foreign policy is undermining one of our greatest allies, Israel, damaging Israeli-Arab relations, and eroding the progress made by Trump’s historic Abraham Accords. All because @POTUS won’t stand up to his radical, anti-Israel wing. Biden administration overrules Trump policy on Palestinians… | foxnews.com”

Blackburn (R-TN) 06/10/2022: Tweet – “Biden’s State Department is creating a new Office of Palestinian Affairs in Jerusalem to work separately from our embassy. This is an attempt to undo U.S. recognition of Israel’s sovereignty and support for Jerusalem as the nation’s capital. It must not be tolerated.”

Hagerty (R-TN) 06/10/2022: Tweet – “I unequivocally oppose this plan. It’s inconsistent with the full & faithful implementation of the Jerusalem Embassy Act of 1995 & suggests the Admin is again trying to undermine America’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s eternal & undivided capital. Biden reverses Trump move by beefing up the U.S. diplomatic mission to Palestinians in Jerusalem | Daily Mail Online”

 

We <heart> AIPAC 

Bacon (R-NE-2) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “Great meeting with AIPAC to discuss our continued partnership with our strongest Democratic ally in the region. The recently found Hezbollah tunnels crossing into Israel, funded by Iran and spanning miles, only underscores the need to combat these radical terrorist groups. Link to image”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 06/17/2022: Retweet of @AIPAC – “Thank you @RepDonBacon for your leadership in support of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship! Link to quoted tweet”

Soto (D-FL-9) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “We met with @AIPAC yesterday to discuss their priorities for the FY2023 budget, combatting antisemitism, and more. Happy to hear more from them and work together. Link to image”

Ruppersberger (D-MD-2) 06/15/2022: Retweet of @AIPAC – “Thank you @Call_Me_Dutch for your leadership in support of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship! Link to quoted tweet”

Portman (R-OH) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @AIPAC – “Today on the AIPAC app: @SenatorCardin and @senrobportman discuss their work to strengthen the U.S.-Israel relationship, build upon the Abraham Accords, and help keep our ally Israel safe. Click here to register: Join me on the AIPAC App… | app.aipac.org   Link to image”

Lesko (R-AZ-8) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “I had a wonderful time meeting with @AIPAC to discuss the need for continued U.S.-Israel relations and assistance to Israel. I will always stand proudly with our ally, Israel!  Link to image”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “We enjoyed seeing you and the AIPAC team yesterday. I will always support an iron-strong relationship with our ally Israel. Link to quoted tweet”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 06/15/2022: Retweet of @AIPAC – “Thank you @RepDonBacon for your leadership in support of a strong U.S.-Israel relationship!  Link to quoted tweet”

Emmer (R-MN-6) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “The United States must continue to stand with Israel. This week, I had the chance to sit down with @AIPAC to discuss our shared concerns regarding a potential nuclear agreement with Iran. Link to image”

Ernst (R-IA) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Thank you @AIPAC for an important discussion of our ongoing commitment to support Israel in the fight against Iran. Peace in the Middle East cannot happen in a vacuum. The Biden admin needs to step up to support our partners in the region. My DEFEND Act is a great place to start. Link to image”

Lee (R-UT) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Israel is a vital ally to the United States. I enjoyed meeting with @AIPAC today to discuss the partnership between our two nations. Link to image”

Rubio (R-FL) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Senator Rubio met with @AIPAC National Council Members to discuss the importance of providing security assistance to help #Israel defend itself from threats like #Iran. Senator Rubio will always stand with Israel, our strongest ally in the Middle East. Link to image”

Ruppersberger (D-MD-2) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Yesterday I met with members of the @AIPAC National Council while they were on Capitol Hill to talk to Members of Congress about legislation strengthening U.S.-Israel relations. Thanks for stopping by. It’s always great seeing the AIPAC team! Link to image”

Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-23) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Great meeting with @AIPAC to discuss security assistance to Israel, preventing a nuclear Iran, and opposing the biased UN COI that undermines prospects for peace. Link to image”

Smith (R-MO-8) 06/14/2022: In reply to Tweet – “@YanaLukeman @AIPAC Anytime, it was a great day with you all.”

Manning (D-NC-6) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Wonderful to meet with @AIPAC National Council members from North Carolina to discuss vital security assistance to Israel, preventing a nuclear-armed Iran, and opposing the one-sided UN COI targeting Israel. I am proud to support the U.S.-Israel relationship in Congress. Link to image”

Rosen (D-NV) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “Spent the morning with @AIPAC to discuss my work to strengthen our critical security partnership with Israel. I will always advocate for our closest ally in the Middle East. Link to image”

Stefanik (R-NY-21) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Great meeting with @AIPAC today to discuss the US-Israel relationship. I will always stand with our allies Israel!”

 

Supporting Israel, Greater Israel, Normalization; Attacking Palestinians, UN, BDS, Etc.

Weber (R-TX-14) 06/17/2022: Retweet of @IDF – “Unlimited range. Unlimited partnership. Link to quoted tweet”

Weber (R-TX-14) 06/17/2022: Retweet of @IDF – “Overnight, IDF soldiers operated in the Jenin Camp to locate and confiscate illegal weapons. Palestinian assailants fired heavily toward the soldiers and hurled explosive devices at them. The soldiers responded with live fire. 1/2”

Ernst (R-IA) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “#ICYMI: My DEFEND Act is uniting Israel and our allies and partners in the region against Iranian-backed aggression. Peace in the Middle East is possible by standing together. From Peace Deal to Military Pact: Congress Wants Israel, Arab Allies to Unite Against Iran… | freebeacon.com”

Long (R-MO-7) 06/17/2022: Retweet of @starsandstripes – “Israel praised Argentina on for holding a Venezuelan plane that included Iranian crew, saying the flight shows Tehran is trying to expand its influence in South America. Israel praises Argentina grounding plane with Iranian crew | Stars and Stripes”

Israeli Ambassador to the US Michael Herzog tweeting about his meetings with members of Congress this week [Moulton (D-MA), Jeffries (D-NY), McCaul (R-TX), Clyburn (D-SC), Garamendi (D-CA)]

Bacon (R-NE-2) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @JGreenblattADL – “Great meeting @RepDonBacon this week for a discussion about the future of bipartisanship in fighting #antisemitism and extremism on all sides. Link to image”

Young (R-IN) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Israel continues to position itself as a key player in the global energy market by agreeing to export natural gas to Europe for the first time. This is a milestone as Europe moves away from dependence on Russia while deepening ties w/ the State of Israel. Israel, EU, Egypt agree deal to export natural gas to Europe… | timesofisrael.com”

Young (R-IN) 06/15/2022: Retweet of @AIPAC – “Thank you @SenToddYoung for your leadership! The DEFEND Act strengthens Israeli-Arab cooperation, promotes regional stability, and counters the Iranian threat. Urge your members of Congress to cosponsor this important bipartisan legislation: Urge Congress to Support the DEFEND Act… | p2a.co   Link to video”

Sherman (D-CA-30) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Good to see the United States under @POTUS Biden standing up against outrageous attempts to delegitimize #Israel through biased reports. US slammed for building 22-member bloc against UNHRC prob on Israel… | jpost.com”

Wilson (R-SC) 6/15/22: Floor statement – “WORLD UNIFICATION AGAINST PUTIN” [entirely about “The European Union is set to sign an agreement with Israel and Egypt which will free itself from Putin energy reliance…”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 06/15/2022: Retweet of @JGreenblattADL – “After a recent speech I made, some took issue with my comparing the antisemitic threat of anti-Zionist orgs, ie @NationalSJP, to that posed by far-right extremist orgs. In a recent @TimesofIsrael piece, I explain how & why anti-Zionism is #antisemitism. You don’t need a map to find antisemitism… | blogs.timesofisrael.com”

Cassidy (R-LA) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “The U.S. should always stand with our ally Israel and promote peace in the region. Biased reports baselessly condemning Israel does not help achieve peace. UN probe blames Israel for perpetuating conflict with Palestinians | The Times of Israel”

Castro (D-TX-20) 06/15/2022: Retweet of @avischarf – “Israel appointed Noa Tishby to fight antisemitism and delegitimization. So she went on FoxNews to talk about Pelosi husband’s DUI arrest, Biden’s age and the ‘obvious double standard of MSM not talking about the attempt to kill a SCOTUS judge’ @Bsamuels0 What Israel’s ‘antisemitism envoy’ did on a conspiracy-laden Fox News panel – Israel News – Haaretz – Haaretz.com”

Ernst (R-IA) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “We have a historic opportunity to work with our fellow Abraham Accords partners to combat Iranian-backed extremists.   FFD understands this. Check out their endorsement of our DEFEND Act Link to image”

Ernst (R-IA) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “From Peace Deal to Military Pact: Congress Wants Israel, Arab Allies To Unite Against Iran From Peace Deal to Military Pact: Congress Wants Israel, Arab Allies to Unite Against Iran… | freebeacon.com”

Wicker (R-MS) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Ukraine, Taiwan, and Israel are all democracies facing direct threats to their existence. Arms sales to these countries should be a top priority to harden their defenses and improve their resilience. Expedite arms deliveries to beleaguered democracies… | defensenews.com”

Scott (R-FL) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “This is wrong and another attempt by @benandjerrys to spread lies and indoctrinate people with anti-Israel propaganda. I will always unapologetically stand with our great ally, Israel. Ben & Jerry’s requires new employees to watch lectures on Israeli-Palestinian conflict… | jewishinsider.com”

Ernst (R-IA) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “*Together* we will fight Iranian aggression and address the challenges we currently face in the Middle East. Thank you @AJCGlobal for supporting the DEFEND Act. Link to image”

Palmer (R-AL-6) 06/14/2022: Retweet of @GOPpolicy – “.@USRepGaryPalmer is sitting down with @RepDavidKustoff to discuss the importance of supporting our ally, Israel. Video coming soon! Link to image”

Tenney (R-NY-22) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “Our State Department must stand against anti-Israel bias at the UN and oppose and expose Hamas’ disinformation operations. Read my recent op-ed in Newsweek with @MichaelMakovsky: The Biden administration must crack down on Hamas’ disinformation campaign | Opinion”

Aderholt (R-AL) 6/13/22: in the Record, “Recognizing The Republic Day Of Azerbaijan,” including “Azerbaijan is a significant partner to the United States and plays a key role in energy security, supporting Israel, and ensuring stability in the region.”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 06/14/2022: Retweet of @JGreenblattADL – “As my colleague @rtrestan says, this Mapping Project is the 21st c. version of the antisemitic Protocols of the Elders of Zion. It names, blames & shames Jews & Zionists for much of the world’s ills & paints them as legitimate targets. This is dangerous. BDS-promoted mapping project is antisemitic and must be condemned – The Boston Globe”

Donalds (R-FL-19) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “This morning I had the honor of meeting with Oded Revivi, mayor of Efrat, one of the most significant cities in Judea & Samaria. Mayor Revivi and I discussed the issues his people are facing and the overall Israeli and American relationship. I will always stand with Israel! Link to image” Also on GETTR

Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Nothing like a scoop of antisemitism to go with your @benandjerrys ice cream. Can you imagine being forced to sit through a politically charged, antisemitic BDS video on your first day of work? Employees should be trained to work, not brainwashed. Ben & Jerry’s requires new employees to watch lectures on Israeli-Palestinian conflict… | jewishinsider.com”

Herrell (R-NM-2) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “It was a pleasure to attend! Link to quoted from Ezra Friedlander – ”My firm coordinated this roundtable discussion chaired by Bobby Rechnitz! @RepLaMalfa @BahrainEmbDC @MoroccoinUSA @RepDavidTrone @RadovanJavorcik @SlovakEmbassyUS @RepHerrell @TeviTroy @IsraelPolicy4m @ZOA_National @cjvalues @nissimbreuben @HungaryinUSA Linked to article – International Leaders Gather to Discuss the Implications of Iran Deal on Abraham Accords (The Yeshiva World 6/13/22)

Ernst (R-IA) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “We had a great time announcing our DEFEND Act on Thursday, joined by our friends, Matt with @jinsadc and Adam from @jfederations to show their support. But the best attendees were the students from Ephriam Curtis Middle School who stopped to watch lawmakers in action!  Link to image”

Levin (D-MI-9) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “It’s truly amazing to read about the 170,000+ people marching in Tel Aviv for their annual #Pride parade. Across the globe, we must reinvigorate our efforts to continue the fight for gender expression and LGBTQIA+ rights for all. Tel Aviv Pride parade kicks off in a new location… | haaretz.com”

Ernst (R-IA) 06/10/2022: Tweet – “Thank you for the support @JackRosenNYC and @AJCongress! It’s great to see all the organizations that have rallied behind the DEFEND Act. Link to image”

Zeldin (R-NY) 6/11/22: Press release — Rep. Zeldin Statement on Antisemitic Boston “Mapping Project”

Schneider (D-IL-10) 06/11/2022: Tweet – “We can stand up to Iran, we can work to foster peace in the region by bringing the nations of the region together. The DEFEND act and U.S. leadership will make that difference. New US bill brings together Abraham Accords signatories against Iran… | jpost.com”

Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-23) 06/10/2022: Retweet of @DemMaj4Israel – “Tens of thousands of people turned out for the 23rd annual Pride Parade in #TelAviv today. “We won’t let anyone feel afraid in our country, we will always provide protection to the people living in this country” – Mayor Ron Huldai #HappyPrideMonth Police shutter roads as tens of thousands expected at Tel Aviv Pride Parade… | timesofisrael.com”

 

Egypt

Ruppersberger (D-MD) 6/14/22: Statement in the Record – Recognition of the Egypt-U.S. Partnership [“I rise today to recognize the fruitful United States-Egypt partnership. The year 2022 marks 100 years of diplomatic relations between our two nations. As co-chair of the U.S. House of Representatives’ Friends of Egypt Caucus, I believe it is of paramount importance that we commemorate this partnership rooted in shared commitments to peace, stability and prosperity. As such, I include in the Record this Newsweek article, entitled ‘Let’s Continue to Strengthen the Egypt-U.S. Partnership’ published on April 18, 2022, and penned by Ambassador of Egypt to the United States, Mr. Motaz Zahran…”]

 

Syria

Wicker (R-MS) 06/17/2022: Tweet – “Our military is the best in the world, and they continue to eliminate the ISIS threat. I am glad to hear of a successful operation conducted against a prominent ISIS bombmaker in Syria. US forces capture senior ISIS leader Hani Ahmed al-Kurdi in Syria raid | Fox News”

Graham (R-SC) 06/16/2022: Twitter thread – “Great job by U.S. led Coalition forces in capturing Hani Ahmed al-Kurdi, a senior leader of the Islamic State and an assessed ISIS bomb maker in Syria. Congratulations to all involved in planning and executing this operation. Senior ISIS Leader Captured in Syria, U.S. Military Officials Say… | wsj.com I appreciate the Biden Administration leaving American forces in Syria to prevent the reemergence of ISIS and to provide some level of stability in this volatile region. This is a prime example of where American troops on the ground, working with local forces, pays big dividends in the War on Terror.  Well done.”

Risch (R-ID) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “I implore @UN security council to reauthorize this vital mechanism so life-saving aid can cont. to millions in #Syria. This is essential to alleviate suffering inflicted by #Assad & his Russian backers. I wrote this two years ago & it sadly remains true: Opinion | With a U.N. Veto, Russia and China Add to Syria’s Misery (Published 2020)   Link to quoted tweet”

Waltz (R-FL-6) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “The War on Terror is not over. ISIS & Al Qaeda WILL re-emerge and attack America again if we let them… US military ground raid in Syria captures top ISIS leader… | abcnews.go.com”

 

Lebanon

Banks (R-IN-3) 06/10/2022: Retweet of @RepublicanStudy – “The #RSC FY2023 budget is a plan that puts America First. Republicans Want to Slash Aid to Iraq, Lebanon, and the United Nations… | freebeacon.com”

 

Iran

Blackburn (R-TN) 06/17/2022: Tweet – “Communist China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea do not care what our soldiers’ pronouns are. The Biden Defense Department should focus energy on combatting our adversaries — not wokeism. Sen. Blackburn’s plan to ‘de-wokeify’ the military foiled by Democrats | Fox News”

Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @AndrewDesiderio – “NEW: Blinken announces new sanctions on Iran. He says absent a deal to revive the JCPOA, the U.S. “will continue to use our sanctions authorities” ICYMI, I reported yesterday that admin officials told senators these sanctions were coming — Iran sanctions could tighten if nuclear talks fade, Biden admin officials tell senators… | politico.com   Link to image”

McCaul (R-TX-10) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “Weakness invites aggression, and this administration must step up and show our adversaries that the U.S. won’t make the same mistakes we did with Russia when it comes to our adversaries like Iran and China. Thanks, @greta, for having me on your new @newsmax show, The Record! Link to video”

Steube (R-FL-17) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “I am very glad to see the Biden Administration leave the IRGC on the Foreign Terrorist Organizations list, after considering removal. Now @SecBlinken must move forward with Sec. Pompeo’s policy recommendations to advance a more democratic, secular, & nonnuclear Republic of Iran. Link to image” Also on GETTR

Risch (R-ID) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “In addition to repeated attacks against our troops and diplomatic facilities without a U.S. response, #Iran has reportedly deployed kidnapping and assassination squads abroad to target #Israelis. We can no longer ignore the regime’s conduct and must suspend #JCPOA negotiations. Link to quoted tweet”

Hyde-Smith (R-MS) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Americans are dubious of the @WhiteHouse outreach to Iran, because they understand that the regime is a threat to our national security. @MarshaBlackburn’s bill attempts to ensure that US interests come first, not some nuclear agreement that would enrich Iran & China in the end.”

Tenney (R-NY-22) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “I recently joined Voice of America to discuss the JCPOA 2.0 negotiations & ongoing protests in Iran. I will continue to stand with the people of Iran in their struggle to establish a democratic country that is at peace with its neighbors. The Iranian people want & deserve better. Link to quoted tweet”

Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) 06/10/2022: Twitter thread – “Any nuclear deal with the Iranian dictatorship must be longer and stronger than the previous failed agreement.   It’s clear that the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism cannot be trusted to hold up its end of the bargain.   Nuclear watchdog says Iran is a few weeks away from having a ‘significant quantity’ of enriched uranium… | cnn.com As they continue their non-compliance with current safeguards, it is critical that we hold Iran and its corrupt leaders to account.   The IAEA Board of Governors Resolution on Iran – United States Department of State”

 

Lebanon

Pence (R-IN-6) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “As a @USMC officer, I spent many nights on the roof of our barracks in Beirut to admire the lone American flag on the horizon. A symbol of Freedom, Liberty & Opportunity for all. A reminder of the sacrifices our American heroes make to protect those values. Happy Flag Day. Link to image”

 

Saudi Arabia – energy issues

Brady (R-TX-8) 06/17/2022: Retweet of @WaysandMeansGOP – “On what Biden should do about rising gas costs, @RepKevinBrady: “I would stop trying to go for much higher taxes on American-Made energy & rather than flying to Saudi Arabia to beg for more energy, I would fly to West Texas & ask, ‘What can I do to help produce more in America?’””

Buck (R-CO-4) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “Instead of drilling for American oil this administration would rather send American dollars and jobs to Saudi-Arabia. This is what America last looks like. Link to quoted tweet”

McCarthy (R-CA-23) 06/17/2022: Tweet – “A 12-hour, non-stop international flight. That’s how far President Biden would rather travel to plead for Saudi Arabian oil rather than simply issue more drilling permits to producers here at home. American oil is cleaner. More reliable. And more affordable. Put America FIRST!” Retweeted by: Malliotakis (R-NY-11), Carter (R-GA-1), Fischbach (R-MN-7), Herrell (R-NM-2), Murphy (R-NC-3), Mullin (R-OK-2)

Pfluger (R-TX-11) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “You’re completely right @MikePompeo. The Permian Basin is the largest secure supply of oil & gas in the world. It’s past time to unleash American energy dominance. Link to quoted tweet”

6/16/22: House floor discussion of Saudi Arabia, energy issues, & Biden visit

Duncan (R-SC-3) 06/15/2022: Twitter thread – “…Instead of bowing down to the Saudis, Biden can simply stay home, save gasoline & reduce carbon emissions, & flip the switch on American energy production…”

Grassley (R-IA) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “the Fed raised interest rates by the most since ’94 to combat inflation They revised estimates 2predict lower GDP+ higher unemployment +higher inflation We need 2pass bills incl my Middle Class Savings& Investment Act +stop blocking American energy ASAP use our oil not Saudi oil”

Harshbarger (R-TN-1) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “President Biden would rather fly thousands of miles to beg Saudi Arabia for oil than to employ Americans do produce it here at home. There’s not enough sugar in the world to coat this sad reality.”

Long (R-MO-7) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “@JoeBiden could #UnleashAmericanEnergy strengthening our national security while lowering #GasPrices however he’ll once again rely on #SaudiArabia to relieve the pain at the pump. Why does @POTUS keep putting America last?”

Cramer (R-ND) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Gas has soared past $5 per gallon. Instead of producing oil here, @POTUS has turned to Venezuela and the Saudis for theirs. The president and his radical left entourage are missing the opportunity to deliver a win for the economy and Americans being hurt at the pump. Link to image”

Fitzgerald (R-WI-5) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Why does President Biden want Saudi energy and not American energy?”

Graves (R-LA-6) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Instead of traveling across the world, we invite President Biden and his team to Grand Isle to see underutilized domestic energy production and to grab some boudin for the road. Statement on the taxpayer funded gas money for Saudi Arabia Road Trip: President Biden Enjoys Taxpayer-funded Gas Money for Saudi Arabia Road Trip, Graves Legislation Reminds Him ‘Home is Where the Heart Is’… | bit.ly   Link to image”

Jordan (R-OH-4) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Next month, President Biden will visit Saudi Arabia to beg the country for more oil. Why not just drill domestically?”

Van Drew (R-NJ-2) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Americans are spending an extra $160 a month on gas. President Biden’s solution is to beg Saudi Arabia for oil. Why not just utilize AMERICAN energy resources?”

Biggs (R-AZ-5) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Why is Biden traveling 6500+ miles to discuss increasing oil production with the Saudis? He should be meeting with American producers in Texas, Oklahoma, and more states at home. We have the energy here!”

Burchett (R-TN-2) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “The @POTUS shouldn’t be traveling to Saudi Arabia to beg for oil production when we could get it here.”

Cornyn (R-TX) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “Now he is going to the Saudis for more production hat in hand? Link to quoted tweet”

Cruz (R-TX) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Link to quoted tweet”

Franklin (R-FL-15) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Joe Biden was handed an energy independent country. Now Biden plans to go to Saudi Arabia to beg the OPEC cartel to pump more oil. He should work with American energy companies, unleash our domestic supply, and bring the costs down back home. ‘Pariah’ no more? Democrats grit their teeth over Biden’s Saudi trip… | politi.co”

Graves (R-LA-6) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “President Biden is heading to Saudi Arabia to negotiate instead of utilizing our energy resources here at home. Louisiana is a much shorter commute. We calculated it for the White House last week. Link to video”

Hagerty (R-TN) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “There is a solution to this crisis right at our doorstep: work with American drillers and get back in the energy business here at home. But this President refuses.Biden to visit Saudi Arabia next month seeking solutions as gas tops $5 per gallon: report | Fox News”

Letlow (R-LA-5) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “When will this Administration realize that the solution to America’s energy crisis is in the Gulf of Mexico, not the Persian Gulf? Biden political gamble on Saudi trip unlikely to drive down gas prices… | thehill.com”

Letlow (R-LA-5) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Today, my Republican colleagues and I brought forward H.R. 6858 – a bill to reopen the Keystone Pipeline, restart leasing in the Gulf of Mexico, and replenish the Strategic Petroleum Reserve. Unfortunately, the majority defeated it. They’re not serious about fixing this crisis. Link to quoted tweet”

Loudermilk (R-GA-11) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “Biden is planning a trip to Saudi Arabia to beg them to produce more oil, after he campaigned saying he’d punish them for human rights abuses. The flip-flop is predictable, but the question is, why go at all when we can produce all the oil we need here in the U.S?” Also on GETTR

Lynch (D-MA-8) 06/14/2022: Retweet of @BeckyCNN – ““Justice for Mr. Khashoggi [is] very important but there is an overarching interest here in stabilizing energy markets.” @RepStephenLynch is 1 of 6 U.S lawmakers calling for Saudi accountability on human rights but tells me he understands the need to recalibrate the relationship: Link to video”

Donalds (R-FL-19) 06/12/2022: Tweet – “Biden doesn’t need to travel to Saudi Arabia to lower gas prices. He needs to travel to AMERICAN states like Texas, North Dakota, New Mexico, Alaska, and Colorado and support their ability to enhance our energy capabilities. Link to quoted tweet”

Arrington (R-TX-19) 06/11/2022: Twitter thread – “This week, Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen testified at the Ways & Means Committee. I conveyed my deep concerns with Biden’s disastrous economic policies … and invited the Secretary & President Biden to visit West Texas—the epicenter of global oil and gas production—rather than traveling to Saudi Arabia at the end of the month. See my full remarks here: Rep. Jodey Arrington | Ways & Means Committee Hearing – Treasury Secretary Yellen – June 8, 2022”

 

Saudi Arabia – non-energy issues

Malinowski (D-NJ-7) 06/17/2022: Twitter thread – “Tom, @RepSpanberger, @RepColinAllred, @RepKatiePorter, @RepJasonCrow, and @RepDeanPhillips say Saudi “must show a greater willingness to work with us—not against us” if our partnership is to thrive. Read their statement ahead of @POTUS’ visit to Saudi  Representatives Malinowski, Spanberger, Allred, Porter, Crow, and Phillips Issue Statement Ahead of President Biden’s Visit to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia… | malinowski.house.gov”

Merkley (D-OR) 06/16/2022: Twitter thread – “Saudi Arabia cannot be allowed to cover up their egregious human rights record—including the murder of journalists—with a flashy golf tour. We all must call out human rights abuses wherever they occur, instead of putting money ahead of morals. Saudi-backed LIV Golf tournament accused of ‘sportswashing’… | abcnews.go.com I spoke with @SecBlinken yesterday about the urgent need for the pattern of Saudi Arabia helping Saudi nationals escape justice after they’ve committed crimes in the U.S. to be on @POTUS’s agenda during his visit. It hits close to home in Oregon—we can’t forget Fallon Smart.”

Omar (D-MN-5) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @mehdirhasan – ““Let’s be honest: if Donald Trump was in office planning a visit to Saudi Arabia [and MBS]…Democrats would be outraged. They would! And yet Biden’s doing it & crickets.” My deep-dive @MehdiHasanShow monologue on Biden’s visit to MBS & Saudi Arabia: Link to video”

Roy (R-TX-21) 6/16/22: On the House floor railing against golfers participating in Saudi-backed golf tour [“there is a cloud hanging over the United States Open this week. And that cloud is the greed and the absurd self-absorbed nature of a handful of the PGA Tour’s elites who are willing to sell their athletic soul, their professional soul to a Saudi Arabian league for their shekels. And it is absolutely an abomination….The tour has made these guys wealthy, and they turn around and they stab the tour in the back to go chase their 30 shekels. It is absolutely unconscionable.”] NOTE: As far as I can tell, nobody has raised any concerns for Roy’s use of the term “shekels” in this context. Also see my Twitter thread]

Roy (R-TX-21) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @dcexaminer – “Texas @RepChipRoy slammed PGA Tour defectors who have decided to join the Saudi-backed LIV Golf, arguing the players are “basically whores and has-beens.” ‘Whores and has-beens’: GOP Rep. Chip Roy blasts golfers in Saudi-backed event… | washex.am”

Roy (R-TX-21) 06/16/2022: Retweet of @juliegraceb – “Chip shot: Chip Roy is taking aim at PGA tour players opting to join LIV Golf, praises Tiger for opting out. ‘Whores and has-beens’: GOP Rep. Chip Roy blasts golfers in Saudi-backed tour ‘Whores and has-beens’: GOP Rep. Chip Roy blasts golfers in Saudi-backed event… | washex.am”

Wild (D-PA-7) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “When @mercan_resifi testified before the Foreign Affairs Committee, I assured her the U.S. would seek justice and accountability for the assassination of Jamal Khashoggi. I am not backing down from my commitment, and nor should President Biden. Link to image”

McCollum (D-MN-4) 06/15/2022: Retweet of @DAWNmenaorg – “Rep. @BettyMcCollum04 (MN) shares her remarks for today’s unveiling of Jamal Khashoggi Way. DAWN thanks her and other advocates for their steadfast support in upholding Khashoggi’s legacy and vision for democracy, human rights, freedom of press. Join us: Jamal Khashoggi Way Ceremony… | fb.me   Link to video”

Carson (D-IN-7) 06/15/2022: Twitter thread – “We must continue to fight and be reminded that human rights and the freedom of press must be the cornerstone of U.S. Foreign Policy. Link to quoted tweet I applaud this historic name change to honor Jamal Khashoggi, but we have to do more. We must demand accountability, and justice must be served for all journalists murdered for truth-telling.”

Khanna (D-CA-17) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “A conditions-free photo op with MBS only emboldens this dictator who’s behind countless civilian deaths in Yemen & the hacking to death of a Washington Post journalist. Any meeting should be predicated on bringing the war in Yemen to a close & permanently lifting the blockade.”

Levin (D-MI-9) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “We won’t see sustainable peace & security in the Middle East or achieve long-term US interests by supporting and legitimizing rulers that abuse human rights. @POTUS, you can’t reset Khassoghi’s murder, war crimes in Yemen or criminalized dissent in Saudi. US seeks full reset with Saudi Arabia, effectively moving on from the murder of Jamal Khashoggi… | cnn.com”

Malinowski (D-NJ-7) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “This is not about human rights vs national security or oil vs Khashoggi. It’s about what is the best way for the United States as a superpower to ensure our client states are on our side in this crucial contest & do their part in ensuring Putin fails. -TM Biden Put Relations With Saudi Arabia on Ice. Then, He Saw an Opportunity…. | politico.com”

Merkley (D-OR) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “Joined @mitchellreports this afternoon to discuss why @POTUS needs to push Saudi Arabia on their horrendous human rights record, including urging the release of civil society activists during his upcoming trip. Sen. Jeff Merkley: Biden must ‘push hard’ on human rights issues during Saudi Arabia trip… | msnbc.com”

Durbin (D-IL) 6/14/22: Floor statement about political prisoners, including: “I have been troubled by the human rights record of this Kingdom,  including the murder of Jamal Khashoggi, for which there is no real accountability yet. This year brought a bit of welcome news. Writer Raif Badawi was finally freed from prison after completing a 10-year prison sentence for dubious charges about his peaceful writings. I hope that the Saudis will allow Raif the dignity of reuniting with his brave wife, Ensaf Haidar, who I met in Washington, and their three children, now living in Canada. Badawi’s lawyer, Waleed Abu al-Khair, a leading human rights defender, is still in prison. He was convicted in Saudi Arabia’s Specialized Criminal Court, usually reserved for terrorists.  I appeal to the Saudi Government to free Waleed and to allow Raif to be reunited with his family. These gestures would be particularly notable in light of President Biden’s upcoming visit.”

Wyden (D-OR) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “The United States cannot value Saudi oil more highly than the blood of Fallon Smart and Jamal Khashoggi. Embracing authoritarians only makes us more vulnerable to the whims of tyrants who will always prioritize unfettered power above international rule of law or American justice. Link to quoted tweet”

Markey (D-MA) 06/14/2022: Twitter thread – “President Biden should not allow Mohammed bin Salman to get away with murder by giving him an audience without conditions during his upcoming trip to Saudi Arabia. (1/7) The Crown Prince has thus far evaded accountability for orchestrating the gruesome murder of renowned journalist and U.S. permanent resident, Jamal Khashoggi. President Biden should condition any face-to-face visit with bin Salman as follows: (2/7) No less than his admission of wrongdoing for the murder of Khashoggi, immediate improvements in Saudi Arabia’s human rights protections, including for women and girls, release of political prisoners, (3/7) accountability for its violations of the laws of armed conflict in the seven-year war in Yemen, and an agreement to cease its reported illicit ballistic and nuclear missile cooperation with China. (4/7) On the domestic front, the long-term antidote to high gas prices as a result of Putin’s illegal war in Ukraine can’t be to turn to another authoritarian government, Saudi Arabia, to fuel the gas tanks of the world. (5/7) The cure to America’s addiction to foreign oil is to invest in a clean energy revolution. 12 million electric vehicles would entirely replace the oil we import from Saudi Arabia. (6/7) This shift to all electric vehicles would save any future President from having to weigh our commitment to human rights with our continued reliance on dirty fossil fuels from the OPEC cartel. (7/7)”

Doggett (D-TX-35) 06/10/2022: Tweet – “President Biden was right the first time, when he pledged to turn the kingdom into a “pariah” after Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman ordered the brutal assassination and dismemberment of journalist Jamal Khashoggi with a bonesaw. Analysis | Biden’s flip-flop on Saudi Arabia”

Doggett (D-TX-35) 06/10/2022: Tweet – “This trip is more than disappointing. It is time to end the pilgrimage of American Presidents for many years, from both parties, to flatter a regime that shares none of our values and has repeatedly acted in ways that are harmful to our families. Link to quoted tweet”

Levin (D-MI-9) 06/11/2022: Twitter thread – “.@SecBlinken suggests the most effective way to stand up for human rights “may be a little bit different” in individual cases. But Biden’s embrace of Saudi Arabia’s leaders and rejection of others is more than a little different—and that’s bad policy. 1/2 Secretary Antony J. Blinken With Jorge Ramos of TelevisaUnivision – United States Department of State When we use different standards for different countries, we undermine US efforts everywhere. The US must be consistent in calling out rights abuses no matter who commits them if we truly believe in pursuing a foreign policy with “human rights and democracy at the center.””

 

UAE

Durbin (D-IL) 6/14/22: Floor statement about political prisoners, including: “This is Ahmed Mansoor, one of the last major human rights voices in the Emirates. He was arrested in 2017 for using blog posts to advocate for reform and human rights in his nation. He was convicted of charges of threatening the UAE’s state security and social harmony, they sentenced him to 10 years in prison. He has been there for more than 5, at times, in solitary confinement, isolated from other prisoners, no contact with his family. He has reportedly been tortured.  Despite the dismal conditions of his incarceration, he remains steadfast in his commitment to human rights. He has conducted multiple hunger strikes to protest prison conditions. I appeal to the United Arab Emirates’ new President, Muhammad bin Zayed Al-Nahyan, to take this opportunity early in his Presidency to demonstrate compassion and courage by releasing Mr. Mansoor.”

 

Yemen

Deutch (D-FL-22) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “I am deeply concerned about the decaying FSO Safer off Yemen’s coast. The int’l community must ensure this vessel does not leak 1+ million barrels of crude oil into the Red Sea, which would cause a humanitarian and environmental disaster & impede a critical commercial waterway.”

Jayapal (D-WA-7) 06/17/2022: Retweet of @USProgressives – “The War Powers Resolution now has more than 80 co-sponsors! The momentum is real — and we’re not stopping here. We will end unauthorized U.S. military involvement in the war in Yemen. Link to quoted tweet”

Jones (D-NY-17) 06/14/2022: Tweet – “What’s happening in Yemen is a humanitarian crisis of unimaginable proportions. We can’t sit idly by any longer. This unauthorized military involvement must end—full stop. Saudi-led airstrikes in Yemen have been called war crimes. Many relied on U.S. support…. | washingtonpost.com”

Watson Coleman (D-NJ-12) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “TWO MILLION children face starvation in Yemen! It should not be the policy of the United States to aid ANY nations that are committing war crimes. My colleagues and I have introduced a bipartisan War Powers Resolution to end U.S. involvement in Yemen. Link to quoted tweet” Retweeted by DeFazio (D-OR-4)

Krishnamoorthi (D-IL-8) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “I am proud to sign onto this bipartisan resolution calling on the administration to end our unauthorized military involvement in the war in Yemen. We must not be complicit in this humanitarian crisis. Lawmakers introduce resolution to end US military involvement in Yemen… | thehill.com”

Meeks (D-NY-5) 06/13/2022: Retweet of @HouseForeign – “CM @RepGregoryMeeks: Strongly support the @StateDept’s $10 million pledge for the @UN plan to address the FSO Safer crisis in #Yemen in order to avoid an environmental catastrophe. I call on our partners to join in pledging to prevent damage to the ecosystem and trade routes. Link to quoted tweet”

Schakowsky (D-IL-9) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “I am a cosponsor of the Yemen War Powers Resolution. Our military must end its unauthorized participation in this conflict that is causing one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. We must stop our engagement and complicity!” Retweeted by DeFazio (D-OR-4)

Meeks (D-NY-5) 06/13/2022: Tweet – “CM @RepGregoryMeeks: Strongly support the @StateDept’s $10 million pledge for the @UN plan to address the FSO Safer crisis in #Yemen in order to avoid an environmental catastrophe. I call on our partners to join in pledging to prevent damage to the ecosystem and trade routes. Link to quoted tweet”

Merkley (D-OR) 06/12/2022: Twitter thread – “Russia’s unprovoked invasion of Ukraine has put food security of people in Ukraine and around the world in peril. Starvation should never be used as a weapon of war, and Russia must be held accountable for stealing vital grain from Ukraine. Russia Seeks Buyers for Plundered Ukraine Grain, U.S. Warns… | nytimes.com I led a bipartisan Senate Resolution calling on the Biden administration to condemn the weaponization of hunger wherever it occurs—from Ukraine to Yemen. Link to quoted tweet”

 

Turkey

HFAC/SFRC leaders’ 6/15/22: Meeks, McCaul, Menendez, Risch Statement on Threatened Turkish Incursion into Northern Syria  also see Tweets – McCaul (R-TX-10), Meeks (D-NY-5), Risch (R-ID)

 

Bahrain

Wilson (R-SC-2) 06/15/2022: Tweet – “Grateful to meet H.E. Speaker of Bahrain’s Council of Representatives, Fawzia bent Abdulla Yusuf Zainal, to discuss issues of importance to further strengthen the valued relationship between our two countries. Speaker highlights boosting cooperation with US Congress… | bna.bh”

 

Oman

Larsen (D-WA-2) 06/16/2022: Tweet – “Small world: Omani Ambassador Moosa Hamdan Al Tai & I are both graduates of @PLUNEWS in #Tacoma. Today, Ambassador Al Tai & I discussed the importance of the bilateral relationship between the United States & Oman.  #GoLutes @FMofOman Link to image”