Legislative Round-Up: April 15, 2022

by APN 04/18/22
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 Produced by the Foundation for Middle East Peace in cooperation with Americans for Peace Now, where the Legislative Round-Up was conceived

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

New this week:

1. Bills, Resolutions & Letters

(RUSSIA & IRAN NUCLEAR DEAL) HR 7490: Introduced 4/11/22 by Chabot (R-OH) and 4 Republican cosponsors, “To direct the President to submit to Congress a report on benefits to the Russian Federation as a result of an agreement with Iran relating to the nuclear program of Iran.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs.

(TIME TO – FINALLY – JOIN THE ICC!) H. Res. 1058: Introduced 4/14 by Omar (D-MN) and 8 Democratic cosponsors, “Expressing the sense of the House of Representatives that the United States should accede to the Rome Statute and become a full member of the International Criminal Court.” Referred to the House Committee on Foreign Affairs. Also see:

 

LETTERS

(GET TOUGHER ON SAUDI ARABIA) Connolly-McGovern et al letter to Blinken: On 4/13, Reps. Connolly (D-VA) and McGovern (D-MA) led a letter, co-signed by 30 other House colleagues,  to SecState Blinken requesting “information on the status of the administration’s review and assessment of the U.S.-Saudi relationship.” The letter goes on to state: “A recalibration of the U.S.-Saudi partnership is long overdue in order to reflect President Biden’s important commitment to uphold human rights and democratic values in our foreign policy. Our continued unqualified support for the Saudi monarchy, which systematically, ruthlessly represses its own citizens, targets critics all over the world, carries out a brutal war in Yemen, and bolsters authoritarian regimes throughout the Middle East and North Africa, runs counter to U.S. national interests and damages the credibility of the United States to uphold our values.” It closes with: “We stand at an inflection point: The United States can continue our status-quo of seemingly unconditional support for an autocratic partner, or we can stand for human rights and rebalance our relationship to reflect our values and interests. How we move forward will send a strong message to democracies, activists fighting for democracy, and human rights defenders and will play an important role in our fight against authoritarianism around the world.” Also see:

(GIVE ISRAEL AERIAL RE-FUELING AIRCRAFT SO IT CAN FIGHT IRAN) Pfluger et al letter to SecDef Austin: On 4/11, Reps. Pfluger (R-TX), Bacon (R-NE), Franklin (R-FL), Mast (R-FL) and Waltz (R-FL) sent a letter to SecDef Austin “seeking information related to the transfer of KC-46A Pegasus aerial refueling tankers to Israel and ask that your department work expeditiously to facilitate this transfer,” including a list of questions to be answered. The letter notes that “It is abundantly clear that Israel needs to upgrade its air to air refueling capabilities in order to effectively deter Iran” and suggests that the Biden Administration is delaying delivery of such aircraft to Israel “to achieve their political goals of signaling to Tehran that Washington is not prioritizing military alternatives to nuclear negotiations,” The writers argue that “If true, this would be an embarrassing abandonment of our long-standing ally for the sake of attempting to achieve a foreign policy goal.”

(DON’T TAKE IRGC OFF FTO LIST) Kennedy et al letter to Biden: On 4/11/22, Sen. Kennedy (R-LA) led a letter, cosigned by 13 fellow Senate Republicans, posing President Biden a series of questions about the IRGC and closes with: “We humbly request that you meet this test of resolve and conscience by publicly and categorically rejecting any discussion of delisting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.” Press release is here. Also see statements/Tweets: Hyde-Smith (R-MS), Kennedy (R-LA), Wicker (R-MS) , Hagerty (R-TN), Wicker (R-MS) & Hyde-Smith (R-MS)

(STATE DEPT RESPOND TO PALLONE LETTER RE: TURKEY) On 4/7/22, Reuters reported that “The Biden administration believes a potential sale of F-16 fighter jets to Turkey would be in line with U.S. national security interests and would also serve NATO’s long-term unity, the State Department said in a letter to Congress that fell short of explicitly supporting the deal.” That letter was in response to a letter sent 2/4/22 to SecState Blinken and SecDef Austin, led by Pallone (R-NY), cosigned by 52 bipartisan House colleagues (reported in the 2/11/22 edition of the Round-Up). Pallone’s letter urged the Biden Administration to “reject the recent Turkish proposal to purchase Block 70 F-16s and mechanical upgrades from the United States to modernize its air force.” The letter argues that approving the proposal “would reward President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for ignoring both Turkey’s alliance commitments to the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the vast human rights abuses his regime continues to commit at home and abroad.”

(DON’T ALLOW TURKEY TO BUY F-16s & UPGRADES) Pallone et al letter to SecState/SecDef: On 2/4, Rep. Pallone (R-NY) led a letter, cosigned by 52 House colleagues (bipartisan) addressed to SecState Blinken and SecDef Austin, urging them to “reject the recent Turkish proposal to purchase Block 70 F-16s and mechanical upgrades from the United States to modernize its air force.” The letter argues that approving the proposal “would reward President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan for ignoring both Turkey’s alliance commitments to the United States and the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) and the vast human rights abuses his regime continues to commit at home and abroad.” Also see: Pallone press release and Twitter thread  [re-tweeted by Malliotakis (R-NY-11)]

 

2. Hearings

April 28, 2022: The House Foreign Affairs Committee will hold a CLOSED briefing, “HFAC Members Briefing on U.S. Security Assistance and Related Matters”. No further information is available as of this writing.

April 27, 2022: The House Foreign Affairs Committee will hold a hearing, “The State Department’s Foreign Policy Priorities and the FY23 Budget Request.” No further information is available as of this writing.

 

3. On the Record

Media (on elections)

Jewish Insider 4/15/22: The senator’s son striving to be a Congress man – Robert Menendez Jr. is hoping there’s room for another Menendez in the Garden State [“…Like his father, who is among the most outspoken supporters of Israel in the Senate, Menendez said he is committed to strengthening ties with the Jewish state, which he described as a ‘vital ally.’ ‘There’s been somewhat of a — how should I phrase it? — inconsistent approach to foreign policy through the last several administrations, and I think that’s left our allies in an uncomfortable position,’ he explained. ‘You have to start by being very clear in your support for your allies, and I think being supportive of Israel is one of the most important actions any member of Congress can take.’…Phil Goldschmeidt, a pro-Israel activist in northern New Jersey who says he is close with Menendez Sr., agreed. After Menendez Jr. announced his candidacy, Goldschmeidt — a member of AIPAC’s national council and a local leader with NORPAC, a bipartisan pro-Israel group — reached out to the campaign to request a position paper. He liked what he read. ‘I’m a big fan of his father, particularly on the Iran deal, and I know his son, looking at his paper, is in line with that,’ Goldschmeidt told JI. ‘My feeling is, to have two Menendezes in Congress would be a big win for the U.S.-Israel relationship.’”]

The Jewish Press 4/15/22: Congressman Ritchie Torres: The Pro-Israel Progressive

Haaretz 4/14/22: Israeli-U.S. Billionaire Saban Donates $1 Million to AIPAC’s Super PAC – Long-term AIPAC supporter Haim Saban is the biggest individual donor to the super PAC since its establishment late last year. His contribution came weeks before the pro-Israel lobby’s traditional PAC endorsed Republican election deniers

Jewish Insider 4/12/22: Bowman challenger Vedat Gashi announces $470K initial fundraising haul [“Last month, a group of Jewish voters in the district published a full-page ad in the Scarsdale Inquirer, expressing their ‘concern’ over Bowman’s decision to withdraw his support for the Israel Normalization Relations Act, which he had previously co-sponsored. The authors said that ‘voters do not understand’ Bowman’s ‘abrupt retraction,’ noting that they ‘would register their disappointment at the polls.’ Gashi has expressed his support for the legislation, which seeks to build on the series of diplomatic agreements, known as the Abraham Accords, that normalized relations between Israel and a number of Arab nations.”]

Jewish Insider 4/12/22: Marjorie Eastman conjures up Reagan’s ‘big tent’ [“While Eastman acknowledged that, as a self-described political outsider, she does not have a voting record on such matters, she said she was ‘100% behind Israel.’…’We support them, we are behind them, and it’s their decision if they want to adopt a two-state solution,’ she said, echoing the sentiments of several Republican candidates who have shied away from voicing explicit support for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state alongside Israel. ‘That’s up to them. I don’t think any nation should go tell another nation what to do, and so I believe it’s up to the Israeli people to decide that.’”]

Jewish Insider 4/11/22: John Fetterman says he’ll ‘lean in’ on U.S.-Israel relationship as senator [“‘I would also respectfully say that I’m not really a progressive in that sense…Our campaign is based on core Democratic values and principles, and always has been, and there is no daylight between myself and these kinds of unwavering commitments to Israel’s security.’ Still, Fetterman said he was ‘eager to affirm’ his positions on the record, lest there be any uncertainty among supporters of Israel who have similar questions. ‘I want to go out of my way to make sure that it’s absolutely clear,’ he told JI, ‘that the views that I hold in no way go along the lines of some of the more fringe or extreme wings of our party.’”]

Daily Caller 4/11/22: Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. John Fetterman Calls Out ‘Misguided’ ‘Squad’ For Anti-Israel Vote

Open Secrets 4/6/22: Democratic incumbents facing off in Michigan’s 11th Congressional District are raising big money [“The two Democratic incumbents differ markedly in their stances on Israel. The American Israel Public Affairs (AIPAC) endorsed Stevens, who has taken a strong public stance in support of Israel and its defense system. In a January fundraising email, former AIPAC President David Victor attacked Levin’s criticisms of Israel’s conflict tactics. Affiliates of J Street, a liberal pro-Israel advocacy organization, gave Levin over $40,000 in 2021 with $5,000 coming from J Street’s PAC.”]

 

Media (general)

Washington Free Beacon 4/15/22: This Lawsuit Against Biden Administration Could Stop a New Iran Nuclear Deal [“…The legal group is engaging Republican lawmakers on the effort amid growing concerns that the Biden administration will circumvent Congress to ink a new deal, which would violate a 2015 law mandating that any new agreement with Iran be brought before the legislative branch for approval.”]

EJewish Philanthropy/Jewish Insider 4/13: Nearly 40 university presidents gather to discuss combating campus antisemitism [“...Multiple speakers, including Rep. Ted Deutch (D-FL), the incoming CEO of AJC, encouraged schools to use the International Holocaust Remembrance Alliance’s working definition of antisemitism, which has been adopted by more than 800 entities globally, including some universities. The definition has sparked controversy on some campuses, as pro-Palestinian activists have charged that it could inhibit political speech on Israel. Deutch rejected those concerns.”] Also see tweet from IfNotNow – “Instead of fulfilling his role as a sitting congressman, @TedDeutch is already campaigning against free speech on college campuses as incoming CEO of @AJCGlobal. We need leaders who support Palestinian activism and see Jewish and Palestinian safety as intertwined.”

Haaretz 4/13/22: Biden’s Latest Iran Challenge: Opposition From Democrats [Also see: last week’s Round-Up – Are House Democrats Really Rallying Against an Iran Nuclear Deal?]

 

Members on the Record

 

Concern/Solidarity with Israel over Israelis Killed by Palestinian Terrorists

Torres (D-NY-15) 04/10/2022: Retweet of @JeffreyDinowitz – “Today I stood with neighbors at the Riverdale Monument in a moment of solidarity and grief with the people of Israel. In recent weeks, terrorists have murdered thirteen people and injured many more in several cities throughout Israel. These are the worst attacks in >15 years. Link to image”

Torres (D-NY-15) 04/10/2022: Retweet of @EricDinowitzNYC – “Thank you to the leaders in our community, @ritchietorres @bill_weitz and @jeffreydinowitz for standing together with the people of Israel and a big thanks to CSAIR, HIR and other groups in our community for organizing the vigil.”

Torres (D-NY-15) 04/11/2022: Twitter thread – “Here I am at a rally in Riverdale, standing with Israel. As we begin observing Passover, Easter, and Ramadan in the same week, let us be reminded not only of our common ancestor (Abraham) but also our common humanity, which is far more powerful than any act of terror. Link to image Israel has lost 14 citizens to a wave of senseless shooting sprees. Terrorism is indiscriminate. No regard for Jewish, Christian, and Muslim life. No regard for Jewish & Arab life. No regard for any life anywhere at any time. Those who stand with terror stand against humanity.”

Weber (R-TX-14) 04/10/2022: In reply to Tweet – “@IDF Good work IDF!” [congratulating the IDF for firing on the family of a Palestinian terrorist]

Bacon (R-NE-2) 04/09/2022: In reply to Tweet – “@OAMHRM Rationalizing murder of innocents is what you’re doing. There’s no excuse.”

Cicilline (D-RI-1) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “Tomer Morad, 28 Eytam Magini, 27 Barak Lufan, 35 May their memories be a blessing. Terror is never the answer. Victims of Tel Aviv terror attack: Two residents in their 20s… | haaretz.com”

Feinstein (D-CA) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “The recent shootings across Israel are abhorrent and must end. My heart is with everyone who has lost loved ones in these terrorist attacks. With many religious holidays taking place this month, let’s renew our commitment to the pursuit of peace.”

Frankel (D-FL-21) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “I’m heartbroken to hear about another tragic terror attack in Israel. My thoughts are with those injured and affected, as well as the loved ones of the victims. May their memories be a blessing. z”l Two killed, many injured in Tel Aviv shooting… | cnn.com”

Kennedy (R-LA) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “Three more Israelis have lost their lives to the bullets of a terrorist. These anti-Semitic attacks against the people of Israel are wicked.”

Kustoff (R-TN-8) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “I am thinking of and praying for everyone in Israel after last night’s deadly terrorist attack in Tel Aviv that took the lives of innocent civilians. The United States must always stand strong with our friend and great ally Israel. May the memories of the victims be a blessing.”

Maloney (D-NY-12) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “My heart goes out to the victims of the terrorist attack in Tel Aviv yesterday. Such actions cannot be allowed to stand. Link to quoted tweet”

Meng (D-NY-6) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “14 killed since the end of March, and many more wounded. I strongly condemn the recent terrorist attacks in Israel. This violence is unacceptable and we must all denounce these heinous acts. Praying for the victims and their loved ones.”

Padilla (D-CA) 04/08/2022: Retweet of @JGreenblattADL – “Mourning Tomer Morad and Eytam Magini, 2 longtime friends killed by a hate-filled terrorist in Tel Aviv last night. This was the 4th terrorist attack in Israel in 2 weeks. My heart goes out to the families of these young men. May their memory be a blessing.Tel Aviv terror victims named as 27-year-olds Tomer Morad, Eytam Magini… | timesofisrael.com”

Wasserman Schultz (D-FL-23) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “Heartbroken as the death toll in Israel continues to rise with another terror attack. The U.S. will continue to stand strong with our ally Israel and condemn terrorism. Sending condolences to the families of the victims. May their memory of those lost be a blessing.”

 

Concern/Solidarity with Palestinians over the IDF killing/injuring/shooting at Palestinians who did not pose any threat, or settler attacks

**crickets***

Examples of what is happening that (unlike attacks on Israelis) Congress doesn’t seem interested in weighing in on:

 

Israel-Iran

Cotton (R-AR) 04/13/2022: Retweet of @jinsadc – “BREAKING: 45+ retired U.S. generals and admirals sign JINSA organized letter urging the President and Congress to reject dangerous #IranDeal. Open Letter from U.S. Military Leaders Opposing Iran Nuclear Deal – JINSA”

Hagerty (R-TN) 04/09/2022: Tweet – “A nuclear-armed Iran would have major negative regional implications & put Israel at risk. Pleased to join @SenTomCotton in urging the Biden Admin to provide Israel with the military capabilities it needs to defend itself & prevent Iran from achieving nuclear-weapons capability. Link to image”

Ernst (R-IA) 04/08/2022: Retweet of @NikkiHaley – “The terror attacks in Israel are horrific. This is why Biden’s renewal of the Iran Deal would be more dangerous. Funding Iran will only lead to more bloodshed in Israel and the region.”

Rubio (R-FL) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “Sen. Rubio, @SenTomCotton, and colleagues sent a letter to President Biden urging his administration to provide #Israel with the military capabilities it needs to defend itself from a nuclear-armed #Iran. Read more ? Rubio, Cotton, Colleagues Call On President to Provide Israel with Support to Defend Itself From Iran… | rubio.senate.gov”

 

Congress <Hearts> New Israeli “Antisemitism Envoy” (who is pro-Greater Israel & focuses on bashing critics of Israel/Zionism)

Deutch (D-FL-22) 04/12/2022: Tweet – “The U.S. stands ready to work w/@noatishby, Israel’s first Antisemitism Envoy, to combat antisemitism and delegitimization of Israel worldwide. See the full statement from all 8 co-Chairs of the House Antisemitism Task Force here: Link to image” (also here)

Granger (R-TX-12) 04/12/2022: Retweet of @RepTedDeutch – “The U.S. stands ready to work w/@noatishby, Israel’s first Antisemitism Envoy, to combat antisemitism and delegitimization of Israel worldwide. See the full statement from all 8 co-Chairs of the House Antisemitism Task Force here: Link to image”

Hoyer (D-MD-5) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “I am pleased to see @noatishby, a tireless advocate for Israel and its people, named as the first Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism & the Delegitimization of Israel. I am thankful to my friend @YairLapid for his leadership in creating this role. Link to quoted tweet”

Lieu (D-CA-33) 04/12/2022: Retweet of @RepTedDeutch – “The U.S. stands ready to work w/@noatishby, Israel’s first Antisemitism Envoy, to combat antisemitism and delegitimization of Israel worldwide. See the full statement from all 8 co-Chairs of the House Antisemitism Task Force here: Link to image”

Torres (D-NY-15) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “My dear friend, @NoaTishby, is fierce, formidable, and fabulous. A true Renaissance woman—actress, author, activist—Noa has emerged as one of the leading voices against Anti-semitism in the world. Congratulations, Noa, on an appointment richly deserved and urgently needed. Link to quoted tweet”

Deutch (D-FL-22) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “Thrilled to see @noatishby, a powerful defender of the Jewish people & Israel, named Israel’s 1st ever Special Envoy for Combating Antisemitism and the Delegitimization of Israel. Thanks to @yairlapid for his leadership & vision in creating this critical post. Link to quoted tweet”

 

Israel – Palestine [other stuff]

Greene (R-GA-14) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “The military technology coming out of Israel is just jaw dropping. Very impressive! Congratulations to our friends in Israel! Looks like Jewish space lasers are real and they kick ass! (Relax and take a joke, everyone!) Link to quoted tweet” Re-tweeted by Gaetz (R-FL-1)

Pfluger (R-TX-11) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “Wishing our nation’s ally and friend, Israel, a Happy Independence Day! Link to image”

Waltz (R-FL-6) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “Gross politicization of the State Department. Israel deserves better from the Biden Administration. Link to quoted tweet” [quoted tweet: “A State Department report identifying alleged human rights abuses in Israel relied in part on information from Amnesty International, whose conclusion that Israel’s policies constitute ‘apartheid’ was criticized by the State Department earlier this year” — citing article in Jewish Insider, “State Dept. cites Amnesty in report on Israel’s alleged human rights abuses.” For facts about Amnesty and the Human Rights reports, see my thread.”

Edwards (D-MD-04) 4/12/2022: Tweet – “J Street has been an important ally to me throughout my career, and I look forward to working with them in the future on the path to peace in the Middle East” linked to J St tweet, “JStreetPAC Proudly Endorses Donna Edwards For Congress in Maryland’s 4th District”

McCarthy (R-CA-23) 04/13/2022: Retweet of @EmmanuelNahshon – “An honor to meet @GOPLeader Kevin McCarthy, Ambassador Michael Adler @USAmbBelgium and Belgian member of the Federal Parliament @MichaelFreilich , at the US Ambassador’s residence. Israel has no better friend than the US Link to image”

Roy (R-TX-21) 04/12/2022: Retweet of @metsmavs910 – “@chiproytx I’m more a conservative than a republican. I believe in small government, freedom, support Israel’s right to exist and am pro life”

Scott (R-FL) 04/12/2022: Retweet of @Jerusalem_Post – “#Republican senators Rick Scott and Mike Braun introduced a bill to prohibit @Amnesty International from receiving “taxpayer-funded federal assistance and benefits from the #UnitedStates government.” Republican senators write bill to prohibit Amnesty from receiving funds… | jpost.com”

Tlaib (D-MI-13) 04/12/2022: Retweet of @usembassyzambia – “Meet @RepRashida, who made history in 2019 when she became the first woman of Palestinian descent in Congress, the first Muslim woman to serve in the Michigan legislature, and one of the first two Muslim women elected to Congress, along with @Ilhan. #ArabAmericanHeritageMonth Link to image”

Scott (R-FL) 04/11/2022: Retweet of @StopAntisemites – “Thread: Senators Rick Scott (FL) and Mike Braun (IN) are co-sponsoring a bill calling to defund Amnesty International due to the group’s antisemitic bias. @amnesty @amnestyusa has received over $2.5 million in U.S. tax dollars over the past two decades.”

Webster (R-FL-11) 04/10/2022: Tweet – “I was recently honored to be presented with @FaithandFreedom Friend of the Family award in recognition of my record of supporting policies that defend families, religious liberty and support Israel. Dan Webster Honored by Social Conservative Group… | floridadaily.com”

Roy (R-TX-21) 04/10/2022: Retweet of @AmichaiStein1 – “Palestinians broke into Joseph’s Tomb, a place holy for Jews, outside of Nablus and vandalized it Link to image”

Kelly (D-AZ) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “I’m a strong supporter of the US-Israel relationship. I’ve pushed for continuing security assistance, replenishing Iron Dome, and expanding technology cooperation. I welcomed @AmbHerzog to my office to discuss the security threats from Iran and expanding the Abraham Accords. Link to image”

Levin (D-MI-9) 04/09/2022: Tweet – “What a blessing to share Shabbat supper with the @JStreetU chapter at @UMich. Being with our young people heals my heart. We talked about the campaign and the movement we’re building. Tzedek tzedek tirdof — justice, justice shall you pursue. We must & we shall! Link to image”

Scott (R-FL) 04/09/2022: Retweet of @newsmax – “Sens. Rick Scott, R-Fla., and Mike Braun, R-Ind., have introduced a bill aimed at stopping Amnesty International from receiving taxpayer funds because of the organization’s stance on Israel.2 GOP Senators Seek Ban on Federal Funding for Amnesty International… | newsmax.com”

Wicker (R-MS) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “Iran is coming closer to a nuclear weapon, and we must take action to provide Israel with the capabilities to defend itself. I joined @SenTomCotton and my colleagues on a letter urging @POTUS to ensure Israel has the weapons it needs to protect its borders and deter Iran.”

 

Syria

Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) 04/13/2022: Twitter thread – “I applaud law enforcement for arresting the Brooklyn shooter suspect. A U-Haul van was linked to the shooter; another reason why the Senate must pass the Darren Drake Act — my bipartisan bill to help vehicle rental companies identify & report suspicious behavior to police. I’m praying for those injured and want to thank Zack Tahhan, a Syrian immigrant from New Jersey, for spotting the suspect and alerting the police…”

Malinowski (D-NJ-7) 04/13/2022: Retweet of @Joelmentum – “‘I’m from Syria. I’m from Jersey.’ Link to quoted tweet”

Pascrell (D-NJ-9) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “Jersey guy FTW, always. God bless this man. #JerseyStrong?? Link to quoted tweet”

Risch (R-ID) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “It’s despicable that any country would invest money in #Syria’s economy while #Assad cont’s to commit crimes against innocent civilians. The admin should use the full force of the #CaesarAct to make clear normalization w/ Assad, including reconstruction, will have consequences. Link to quoted tweet”

Hill (R-AR-2) 04/12/2022: Tweet – “The numbers coming out of Mairupol are shocking and reminiscent of the same playbook Putin and his friend the butcher Assad used in Syria against the Syrian people. Republican Congressman French Hill weighs in on Russia’s war in Ukraine… | cbsnews.com”

Kinzinger (R-IL-16) 04/11/2022: Twitter thread – “I certainly hope if it’s true that #ChemicalWeapons were used today, that this would be a red line. #ukraine fights for us all. @POTUS 2/ It’s not confirmed, but important to note while evidence is gathered that the new commander for Russia has used them in Syria. We need to make it clear they cannot be used again”

Risch (R-ID) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “While Gen. Dvornikov might be new to #Russia’s war on #Ukraine, he is not new to the int’l community. For years, he’s helped #Assad murder countless civilians by means of terrorism, torture, rape, & nerve agents in #Syria. There must be accountability for #RussianWarCrimes Link to quoted tweet”

Waltz (R-FL-6) 04/12/2022: Tweet – “Escalating to WMDs is part of Russian doctrine. They’ve used them before in Syria & I wouldn’t be surprised if they did again in Ukraine. Biden should be setting redlines for chemical weapons that if Putin crosses, would risk direct US involvement. We must start deterring Putin. Link to video”

Jacobs (D-CA-53) 04/10/2022: Tweet – “Russia has appointed Gen. Dvornikov to command its forces in Ukraine and given his track record in Syria, I’m very concerned this will mean more civilians are killed. We must continue to support Ukraine, join the ICC, and support international efforts to hold Russia accountable. Link to video”

Kinzinger (R-IL-16) 04/09/2022: Tweet – “Given what Russia has done in Syria—namely aiding in Assad’s genocide—it’s pretty clear that Putin will double down on his war crimes in #Ukraine. Link to quoted tweet”

Young (R-IN) 04/09/2022: Tweet – ““The 23 nations that voted with Russia included the usual suspects Cuba, North Korea, Syria, Iran, Belarus—and China.” #BeijingBehavingBadly Opinion | When Russia Loses the U.N. . . .”

Risch (R-ID) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “Yesterday’s attacks on U.S. forces in #Syria follow a string of similar provocations by #Iran-aligned proxies. Protecting American lives is our top priority, which is why any deal with Iran must address Iran’s support for terrorist proxies as a matter of urgency.”

 

Lebanon

Meeks (D-NY-5) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “Chairs @RepGregoryMeeks and @SenatorMenendez, and Ranking Members @RepMcCaul and @SenatorRisch, release statement on staff-level agreement between the IMF and Lebanese government Meeks, McCaul, Menendez, Risch Statement on Staff-Level Agreement Between IMF, Lebanese Government… | foreignaffairs.house.gov   Link to image”

Risch (R-ID) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “The staff-level agreement between the #IMF & Lebanese gov’t is a good step. The gov’t should now quickly take action, including passing & implementing important legislative reforms, in order to fully secure this agreement & help the people of #Lebanon. Risch, Menendez, Meeks, McCaul Statement on Staff-Level Agreement Between IMF, Lebanese Government | United States Senate Committee on Foreign Relations”

 

Iran

Burchett (R-TN-2) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “Last week, I sounded the alarm on the Biden Administration’s potential nuclear deal with Iran alongside my @HouseForeignGOP colleagues. Lifting sanctions on Iran would throw a financial lifeline to terror groups backed by the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps. Link to video” Re-tweeted by McCaul (R-TX-10)

Cornyn (R-TX) 04/15/2022: Retweet of @Norman_Roule – ““Iran’s Revolutionary Guards leader vows to back all Islamic militias” Iran doesn’t hide its plans for the region. A nuclear deal may bring temporary restrictions on Iran’s nuclear enterprise, but it will also resource these activities. Iran’s Revolutionary Guards leader vows to back all Islamic militias… | ft.com”

Ernst (R-IA) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “As Russia continues its lawless invasion of Ukraine & our adversaries are emboldened, now is the wrong time to be negotiating a new Iran deal. 46 retired generals & admirals agree: Link to image”

Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) 04/14/2022: Twitter thread – “We must not cave to demands from Iran — the world’s leading state-sponsor of terror. It’s time to stand strong against terrorists, and protect American values and our allies. We cannot lift the FTO designation from the IRGC, remove non-nuclear sanctions on Iran, or let Russia hijack the negotiations. Lawmakers on both sides of aisle express deep reservations on emerging Iran nuclear deal… | jns.org”

Hagerty (R-TN) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps is trying to kill US public servants on US soil & is responsible for the deaths of over 600 Americans. Biden must reject discussion of delisting the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a Foreign Terrorist Organization.GOP senators urge Biden to keep Iran revolutionary guard’s terrorist designation… | washingtonexaminer.com”

Scott (R-SC) 04/15/2022: Tweet – “Depending on our adversaries for American energy needs is exactly what got us in this crisis. Turning to Venezuela or Iran for oil would be a mistake.”

Pfluger (R-TX-11) 04/13/2022: Retweet of @jinsadc – “BREAKING: 45+ retired U.S. generals and admirals sign JINSA organized letter urging the President and Congress to reject dangerous #IranDeal. Open Letter from U.S. Military Leaders Opposing Iran Nuclear Deal – JINSA”

Banks (R-IN-3) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “Iranian MPs should know… once the GOP takes back the House we will do everything in our power to overturn Biden’s restoration of JCPOA and reimpose max pressure sanctions. Iran MPs set conditions for reviving 2015 nuclear deal amid stalled talks | Reuters”

Banks (R-IN-3) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “This is the group Biden wants to delist as a foreign terrorist organization. Iran Guards commander says death of all US leaders would not avenge Soleimani killing | Reuters”

Cassidy (R-LA) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “46 retired generals & admirals oppose Biden’s intent to sign another terrible Iran Nuclear Deal. These generals know the cost of bad political decisions. @POTUS must walk away from the Iran Deal. Link to image”

Cruz (R-TX) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “How bad does Blinken want his nuke deal w/ Iran? He was rushing to dismantle terrorism sanctions on Iran’s IRGC while he knew they were trying murder his predecessor on US soil. He asked Iran to please stop trying to murder former State Dept officials-& the Ayatollah said no! Link to quoted tweet”

Stefanik (R-NY-21) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “These are the people who the Biden administration is “negotiating” with. This is disqualifying. Iran Guards commander says death of all US leaders would not avenge Soleimani killing | Reuters” Also on GETTR

Tenney (R-NY-22) 04/14/2022: Twitter thread – “With all the troubling news coming to light, I can understand why Biden’s Iran Envoy @Rob_Malley is hiding from Congress. But while the deal he is negotiating may be indefensible, he still has an obligation to answer tough questions. I will continue fighting to make sure he does. Read my latest op-ed in @Newsweek on the very serious problems with the Iran deal being negotiating by the Biden Administration, and the immediate need for accountability and congressional oversight. What is Biden’s Iran envoy hiding? | Opinion”

Cruz (R-TX) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “The Ayatollah is trying to murder former American officials. The Secret Service was compromised by agents being investigated for possible ties to Iran. The Biden admin is trying to dismantle terrorism sanctions on Iran & give them billions. It’s madness. Was the Infiltration of the Secret Service Part of an Iranian Plot to Kill John Bolton? – Tablet Magazine”

Risch (R-ID) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “Reports that #Iran is using its proxies to send weapons to #Moscow – helping fuel #RussianWarCrimes in #Ukraine – underscore #Tehran’s cont’d support for terrorism. Biden should walk away from a bad nuclear deal that merely stands to enrich the Iranian regime & now benefit Putin. Link to quoted tweet”

Waltz (R-FL-6) 04/12/2022: Tweet – “Great to sit with @MiddleEastInst’s Bilal Saab to talk about U.S. policy in the Middle East, including the disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan, negotiations with Iran, Saudi Arabia & China’s growing presence in the Middle East. Check it out on C-Span Rep. Mike Waltz Discusses U.S. Policy in Middle East… | c-span.org”

Young (R-IN) 04/12/2022: Tweet – “Read my op-ed Link to quoted tweet” [op-ed on Fox News “Biden’s Iran deal would create a foreign policy disaster for US and hand Xi, Putin, Khamenei a major victory”] Tweeting the op-ed: Young (R-IN), Young (R-IN)

Zeldin (R-NY-1) 04/12/2022: Tweet – “The 2015 nuclear deal with Iran was fatally flawed. Now, the Biden Admin is indicating a willingness to enter a new nuclear deal with Iran that’s even worse than the 2015 agreement. Joined @MariaBartiromo on @FoxBusiness @MorningsMaria to discuss. Link to video” Also on GETTR

Bacon (R-NE-2) 04/12/2022: Retweet of @IAC_NE – “Such a strong message to @POTUS. #IRGC poses a serious threat to our national security and must remain on the FTO list. Our community support the statement released by over 500 Iranian-American professionals. @StateDept @RepDonBacon @OWHnews Over 500 Iranian American professionals urge Biden to keep Revolutiona… | washingtontimes.com”

Hagerty (R-TN) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “Why does Biden keep giving Iran a free pass? | @dcexaminer Why does Biden keep giving Iran a free pass?… | washingtonexaminer.com”

Stefanik (R-NY-21) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) is a TERRORIST organization that is responsible for killing over 600 Americans. Chris Murphy’s lobbying to lift sanctions on the IRGC is disgusting and disqualifying. Murphy Under Fire for Pushing to Lift Sanctions on Top Iranian Terror Group… | freebeacon.com”

Tuberville (R-AL) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “Further proof that reviving the Iran Deal is a bad idea… Exposed: The Russian Companies That Will Get Billions from New Iran Nuclear Deal… | freebeacon.com”

Young (R-IN) 04/12/2022: Tweet – “The president came into office promising a “longer and stronger” deal with Iran, but this is weaker and shorter. Read why we need to reject this proposed agreement here: Biden’s Iran deal would create a foreign policy disaster for US and hand Xi, Putin, Khamenei a major victory… | foxnews.com”

Cotton (R-AR) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “President Biden’s Iran deal won’t just benefit Iranian terrorists—it will help fund Putin’s war machine. Exposed: The Russian Companies That Will Get Billions from New Iran Nuclear Deal… | freebeacon.com”

Hagerty (R-TN) 04/10/2022: Tweet – “Biden & Democrats are going to try to go around Congress again with returning to the disastrous Iran nuclear deal—not submit it as a treaty as is required by the law. I’m doing everything I can to exert congressional oversight on this foolhardy idea by the Biden Admin. Link to video”

Mast (R-FL-18) 04/10/2022: Tweet – “#IranDeal news: If Joe Biden won’t uphold his oath of office, action needs to be taken. That’s why I introduced legislation with @RepScottPerry to ensure he puts the security of Americans first. Unacceptable Concessions from Biden… | mast.house.gov”

Scott (R-SC) 04/09/2022: Tweet – “Reviving the Iran Nuclear Deal is reckless and fast tracks a nuclear-armed Iran, making the whole world less safe.”

Babin (R-TX-36) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “The admin’s risking our safety yet again by considering the removal of Iran’s Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps from the Foreign Terrorist Organization list. This move will allow terrorists to enter into the U.S. to stay. Does that make you feel safe? New Iran Nuclear Deal Could Allow Iranian Terrorists Into U.S…. | freebeacon.com”

Biggs (R-AZ-5) 04/09/2022: Tweet – “Biden is trying to replace Russian oil and gas by buying it from tyrannical regimes that hate America. Venezuela and Iran are not our friends.”

Mast (R-FL-18) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “This shouldn’t even be a discussion. No concessions for terrorists. Milley says US should keep Iranian guard’s designation as terrorist organization… | washingtonexaminer.com”

Roy (R-TX-21) 04/08/2022: Retweet of @tedcruz – “Appalling and incoherent. Biden is going to hand Putin billions of dollars, fueling his war against Ukraine, in order to help build up Iran’s nuclear program. It’s like Team Biden sits around thinking of new ways to endanger Americans. Link to quoted tweet”

Tenney (R-NY-22) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “ICYMI: On Wednesday, I joined @HFACgop to discuss the Biden Admin’s continued push for a renewed nuclear deal with the world’s leading state sponsor of terror, Iran. JCPOA 2.0 would make America, and the world, less safe! Link to image”

Zeldin (R-NY-1) 04/09/2022: Tweet – “The Biden Admin may be on the verge of agreeing to a nuclear deal with Iran that’s even worse than the 2015 agreement. This is an extremely bad idea. If it’s not submitted to Congress for ratification, it won’t be worth the paper it’s written on. House Republicans aim to force vote to thwart Iran nuclear deal… | washingtonexaminer.com” Also on GETTR

 

Saudi Arabia & Yemen

Jones (D-NY-17) 04/15/2022: Retweet of @LowerHudsonAT – “Great meeting with our awesome #NY17 ⁦@RepMondaire⁩ & amazing Legislative Director Michael Perez to discuss #YemenWarPowers. Thank you for supporting #YemenCantWait ⁦⁦@ZachFisch⁩ ⁦@FCNL⁩ ⁦@HassanElTayyab⁩ Link to image”

Cruz (R-TX) 04/14/2022: Retweet of @SharylAttkisson – “Hold on.. a Saudi Prince is one of Twitter’s largest shareholders? Link to image   Link to quoted tweet”

Cruz (R-TX) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “Truly, a guardian of our Constitution. Link to quoted tweet”

Cruz (R-TX) 04/14/2022: Retweet of @ggreenwald – “I love that Elon Musk’s potential influence in Twitter caused so much hysteria in the West while this Saudi billionaire’s massive role never created any concern. That’s because one says he believes in free speech and one clearly does not, and it’s free speech that spurs panic. Link to quoted tweet”

Cruz (R-TX) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “Link to quoted tweet”

Cohen (D-TN-9) 04/13/2022: Twitter thread – “Three truths : 1.Trump and co.were behind Jan.6 coup against US . 2.Putin helped Trump win in ‘16 through polling data from Manafort and social media posts by Russia 3. Russia and Saudi’s will be for Trump ‘24 4. Democracy in danger Well four not three”

Malinowski (D-NJ-7) 04/13/2022: Twitter thread – “Average gas prices in New Jersey are $4.06, down from $4.34 a month ago. So we’re heading in the right direction, thanks in part to President Biden’s use of the strategic reserves – but not yet fast enough. Here’s what we’re doing and what’s still needed. …As we wait for more US oil to enter the market, the only other countries that can quickly replace the lost Russian crude are Saudi Arabia and the UAE. But they are still protecting Russia, even as we protect their oil fields and shipping lanes. They need to choose sides fast. The oil cartel and companies may view this crisis as their last chance to make a killing before cheaper renewable energy dominates the market. I hope they’re right! We need them now. But let’s make America the world’s clean energy superpower so we’re never at their mercy again.”

Malinowski (D-NJ-7) 04/12/2022: Tweet – “So, the former (and possibly future) president’s son-in-law gets $2 billion from Saudi Crown Prince MBS. Meanwhile, MBS refuses to increase oil production to help the current president lower gas prices. Gee, Wonder Why Mohammed Bin Salman Personally Intervened to Give Jared Kushner $2 Billion… | rollingstone.com”

Cicilline (D-RI-1) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “Truly shocking, I know. Another Trump cashing in on the Trump Presidency. Before Giving Billions to Jared Kushner, Saudi Investment Fund Had Big Doubts… | nytimes.com”

Cohen (D-TN-9) 04/11/2022: Retweet of @RepCohen – “He was bailed on 666 fifth ave. by Middle East money and now 2BILLION$ from Saudi’s .When he and Crown Prince met state dept.personnel were not allowed to monitor meetings!Stinks! Link to quoted tweet”

Long (R-MO-7) 04/12/2022: Retweet of @ClayTravis – “Saudi Arabian comedians are ridiculing Joe Biden. Link to video”

Cohen (D-TN-9) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “He was bailed on 666 fifth ave. by Middle East money and now 2BILLION$ from Saudi’s .When he and Crown Prince met state dept.personnel were not allowed to monitor meetings!Stinks! Link to quoted tweet”

Khanna (D-CA-17) 04/11/2022: Retweet of @mehdirhasan – “On the @MehdiHasanShow on @MSNBC last night, I asked the new U.S. Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice why the U.S. government is willing to call out war crimes by Russia in Ukraine but not by, say, Saudi Arabia in Yemen. Watch the exchange: Link to video”

Murphy (D-CT) 04/10/2022: Tweet – “Just because the breathtaking corruption occurs in public doesn’t make it not breathtaking. Before Giving Billions to Jared Kushner, Saudi Investment Fund Had Big Doubts… | nytimes.com”

Omar (D-MN-5) 04/11/2022: Retweet of @mehdirhasan – “On the @MehdiHasanShow on @MSNBC last night, I asked the new U.S. Ambassador at Large for Global Criminal Justice why the U.S. government is willing to call out war crimes by Russia in Ukraine but not by, say, Saudi Arabia in Yemen. Watch the exchange: Link to video”

Van Hollen (D-MD) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “And here comes the $2 billion hush money payout to Trump’s son-in-law, Jared, for the Trump Admin looking the other way in the face of Washington Post columnist, Jamal Khashoggi’s dismemberment by bone saw. Blood money. Jared Kushner’s PE firm secured $2 billion from Saudi Arabia despite objections he was too inexperienced to manage the money, report says… | businessinsider.com”

Smith (D-WA-9) 04/09/2022: Tweet – “The war in Yemen is one of the worst humanitarian crises in the world. While the truce is a positive step, ending the war remains the ultimate goal. What Yemen’s first nationwide truce in 6 years means for the world’s worst humanitarian crisis… | cnn.com”

DeFazio (D-OR-4) 04/08/2022: Tweet – “100% agreed with @brhodes. Congress must pass a Yemen War Powers Resolution and bring an to end the U.S.’s unauthorized involvement and complicity in the horrific violence and humanitarian crisis in Yemen. Link to quoted tweet”

Omar (D-MN-5) 04/08/2022: Retweet of @keithellison – “⁦@IlhanMN⁩, must read: “little note has been made of the fact that this Muslim Congresswoman has emerged as one of the most outspoken critics of human rights abuses in a number of predominantly Muslim countries, including Saudi Arabia and Sudan.” Ilhan Omar and the Politics of ‘Radical Love’… | progressive.org”

 

Egypt

Suozzi (D-NY-3) 04/09/2022: Tweet – “My thoughts are with my friends in the Egyptian Coptic community as they mourn the Coptic priest who was murdered during this holy season. This senseless violence has no place in our world. Priest dies from stabbing on seaside promenade in Egypt… | news.yahoo.com”

 

Bahrain

Gonzales (R-TX-23) 04/11/2022: Tweet – “Last week I had the honor of meeting with Bahraini Ambassador to the U.S., Abdulla Al Khalifa. We discussed ways we can work to strengthen economic relations between the U.S. and Bahrain. Link to image”

 

Turkey

Bilirakis (R-FL-12) 04/14/2022: Tweet – “#NoJetsForTurkey This would be another disastrous foreign policy blunder by the Biden Administration. There must be consequences for those that thumb their nose at a law designed to protect US national security interests, as Turkey has repeatedly done. ARTICLE NOT FOUND | groong.com”

Keating (D-MA-9) 04/13/2022: Tweet – “I have not spoken with nor met Istanbul Mayor @imamoglu_int. My 3/31 remarks were in reference to a prior discussion with my staff about inviting the Mayor to a hearing, but no outreach took place and I certainly have not spoken with the Mayor as has been reported.”

Malliotakis (R-NY-11) 04/13/2022: Retweet of @ANCA_DC – “Thanks Rep. Nicole Malliotakis @NMalliotakis @RepMalliotakis for supporting #ArmenianGenocideEducationAct, a bipartisan measure funding education ($10 million) about Turkey’s #genocide of #Armenian #Greek #Assyrian #Chaldean #Syriac #Aramean #Maronite & other #Christian nations Link to image”

Omar (D-MN-5) 04/11/2022: Retweet of @ANCA_DC – “Thank you Congresswoman Ilhan Omar @IlhanMN for supporting the #ArmenianGenocideEducationAct, a bipartisan measure funding educational programs ($10 million) about Turkey’s #genocide (1915-1923) against #Armenian #Greek #Assyrian #Chaldean #Syriac #Aramean #Maronite nations. Link to image”

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