Jefferson Reporter

U.S. Senators Katie Britt and Jim Risch have introduced the Stand with Israel Act, aimed at halting U.S. funding to United Nations agencies that restrict Israel's participation. The legislation comes in response to perceived anti-Israel actions within the UN.

Senator Britt stated, "The UN should be pressuring Hamas to release every single hostage, not punishing Israel for defending her people and her very existence." She emphasized the importance of using all available tools to support Israel and combat antisemitism.

Ranking Member Risch expressed his disapproval of any attempts to alter Israel’s status at the UN, describing such moves as antisemitic. He warned that if changes occur without consequences, it would signify a breakdown in the UN system.

Several other senators joined Britt and Risch in supporting the bill, including Tom Cotton, Chuck Grassley, Bill Cassidy, Dan Sullivan, Steve Daines, Mike Lee, Kevin Cramer, John Barrasso, Pete Ricketts, Eric Schmitt, Rick Scott, John Kennedy, Mike Crapo, Roger Wicker, Shelley Moore Capito, Marco Rubio, Joni Ernst, Ron Johnson, Markwayne Mullin, Thom Tillis, Ted Budd Susan Collins Tim Scott Josh Hawley James Lankford John Thune Deb Fischer Marsha Blackburn John Hoeven Jerry Moran John Boozman and Roger Marshall. This Senate proposal complements a bipartisan House bill led by Representative Mike Lawler.

Senator Britt has been vocal about her support for Israel following an attack on October 7. She visited Israel with other senators to reinforce U.S. support and has backed resolutions condemning Hamas' actions during the attack.