Bipartisan House Lawmakers Propose Bill to Protect Israel at the U.N

A bipartisan coalition of House lawmakers is advancing legislation aimed at shielding Israel from potential political challenges at the United Nations. Spearheaded by Representatives Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.) and Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), the proposed bill seeks to prohibit funding to U.N. agencies that impose restrictions on Israel's participation in international affairs. Lawler emphasized the necessity of standing against perceived anti-Israel bias at the U.N., asserting that no financial support should be given to agencies undermining Israel's status. Moskowitz echoed these sentiments, criticizing the U.N. for its perceived double standards against Israel, particularly following the recent violence instigated by Hamas. He called for the U.N. to leverage its influence to encourage Hamas to agree to a cease-fire. This legislative initiative follows a recent non-binding opinion from the U.N.’s top court, which urged Israel to halt settlement construction in the West Bank, amid growing concerns over the humanitarian situation in Gaza due to Israel's military actions. The bill, which also has the support of Jewish Democratic Representatives Greg Landsman (D-Ohio) and Josh Gottheimer (D-N.Y.), aims to cut funding to any U.N. entity that restricts Israel's full participation alongside other member states. The introduction of this bill coincides with the Democratic Party's presidential nominating convention in Chicago, where anti-Israel protests have erupted, reflecting a growing divide within the party regarding U.S. policy towards Israel and Palestine.