On the recordJune 27, 2024
The NSM contains language that says recipient countries can't arbitrarily deny, restrict, or otherwise impede U.S.- supported humanitarian assistance. What exactly is U.S.-supported humanitarian assistance? If a national security reason required a recipient country to temporarily restrict whatever U.S.-supported humanitarian assistance is, would that in turn deny Israel weapons it needed to defend itself? The language in this memo is imprecise and could be used against Israel and, quite frankly, other countries as well by a President who has made the conflict in Israel political. Israel is fighting for their existence. They are under attack. If there was a rogue state operator in Mexico that was launching missiles, bombs, or explosives into Texas, we would occupy Mexico City within 72 hours. We may or may not give it back. Israel has a right to defend itself, and it should not be singled out and undermined by this President or Secretary Blinken. I have had enough. Israel has had enough. The American people have had enough. This amendment is important to send a message to Biden: No more politics. Defend our greatest ally in the Middle East. Madam Chair, I yield back the balance of my time.





