AIPAC opposes the @ChrisVanHollen amendment that politicizes U.S. support for Israel's security. This amendment contradicts the Obama-@JoeBiden MOU and goes far beyond current law in ways that damage American interests, risk Israel's security, and make peace less likely.
Despite some policy disagreements with Israel, President Obama increased America's security commitment to Israel, and his MOU had no political restrictions.
As @JoeBiden said, it would be a "gigantic mistake" and “absolutely outrageous” to condition or leverage security aid.
As @JoeBiden said, it would be a "gigantic mistake" and “absolutely outrageous” to condition or leverage security aid.
.@ChrisVanHollen wants to ensure no U.S. funds are used for annexation. But that's already law. Aid can only be used for “internal security, for legitimate self-defense.”
This amendment goes far beyond current law in ways that jeopardize Israel's security.
This amendment goes far beyond current law in ways that jeopardize Israel's security.
It's dangerous to weaken Israel’s defenses, especially as it faces unprecedented threats. A strong Israel advances our interests—including deterring war and promoting peace—and is a key pillar of our regional security strategy.
Weakening Israel weakens us.
Weakening Israel weakens us.
Unlike other allies, Israel insists on defending itself by itself, relying on America only to ensure it has the means to do so.
This amendment undermines Israel's security by prohibiting it from using U.S.-made equipment to defend itself in a variety of foreseeable scenarios.
This amendment undermines Israel's security by prohibiting it from using U.S.-made equipment to defend itself in a variety of foreseeable scenarios.
The amendment also restricts where Israel can place lifesaving missile defense systems like Iron Dome. As Iran expands its missile program, and Hamas & Hezbollah possess 150,000+ rockets and missiles, it is dangerous to threaten Israel's ability to fully utilize these defenses.
Since declaring its independence 72 years ago, Israel has yet to know a day of true peace. But the cornerstone of every successful peace initiative between Israel & its neighbors has been steadfast U.S. support for Israel’s security. Restricting support makes peace less likely.
A viable two-state deal is only attainable if America’s support for Israel is ironclad, & the Jewish state knows its ally & partner has its back. Threats to its security embolden Israel's enemies & cause ordinary Israelis to question the wisdom of taking further risks for peace.
Our only stable, democratic ally in the Middle East faces unprecedented threats & challenges. America must stand with our ally, and Congress must not politicize U.S. security assistance to Israel.
