Proposed US Legislation to Cut UN Funding Over Israel's Membership
In a significant political move, thirty Republican lawmakers in the United States have announced plans to introduce a bill that threatens to cut funding to the United Nations if it takes any actions that could alter Israel's membership status. The bill, termed the 'Stand with Israel' initiative, is spearheaded by Senators Jim Risch and Kevin Cramer, who argue that the UN's actions against Israel are tantamount to anti-Semitism.
The proposed legislation would prohibit U.S. funding to the UN and its agencies if they expel, reduce, suspend, or restrict Israel's participation in any capacity. Senator Cramer emphasized that American taxpayers should not fund institutions that punish Israel for defending its existence. Similarly, Senator Risch stated that any attempts to change Israel's status at the UN must be met with a cessation of U.S. support for the organization.
This legislative push follows a recent UN General Assembly resolution that upgraded Palestine to a 'permanent observer' state, enabling it to participate more fully in UN processes and potentially influence Israel's status within the organization. The proposed bill is expected to be introduced once Congress reconvenes in the coming weeks.
