Legislative Round-Up: January 7, 2022

by APN 01/10/22
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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. On the Record

1. Bills, Resolutions & Letters

None.

LETTERS

(US MUST EXPEDITE REFUELING JETS TO ISRAEL TO COMBAT IRAN) Green et al letter to Biden: On 1/5/22, Rep. Green (R-TN) led a letter, co-signed by Bice (R-OK), Franklin (R-FL), McClain (R-MI) and Waltz (R-FL), to President Biden, expressing disappointment with the Biden Administration’s “decision to refuse to expedite the delivery of two KC-46 refueling jets to the State of Israel,” arguing that the aircraft are “crucial to the defense of Israel.” The letter goes on to suggest that failure to expedite the delivery of the aircraft weakens Israel’s position vis-a-vis Iran (in terms of harming its ability to conduct military action against it) and also deprives the U.S. of leverage against Iran (citing JINSA as a validator on this line of argument). The letter goes on to request answers to a list of questions about how/why that decision was made, and closes by implying that failing to provide the aircraft is tantamount to failing to “stand with them [the State of Israel] against anti-Semitic prejudice and threats of violence.” Also see:

(SEC MUST PUNISH UNILEVER – & FORCE COMPANIES TO TREAT WEST BANK AS PART OF ISRAEL) Scott at al letter to SEC: At some point during December 2021, Senators Scott (R-SC), Tillis (R-NC) and Kennedy (R-LA) sent a letter to  Securities and Exchange Commission Chairman Gary Gensler urging action against Unilever/Ben & Jerry’s. At the core of this letter is the demand, in effect, that the SEC recognize the West Bank as part of the sovereign state of Israel, and that the SEC enforce such recognition on companies that are publicly traded. As of this writing the letter has not been made public but according to Fox Business News, the letter calls on the SEC to investigate Unilever for allegedly making false statements regarding its decision to cease selling its products in the West Bank (but making clear its intention is not to cease business in Israel, calling such an investigation necessary to “defend the integrity of U.S. markets.” Per FoxNews, the letter states: “There is strong reason to believe that these July 19 statements were knowingly and recklessly false“. This allegation is grounded in the senators’ implicit embrace of Israeli law barring businesses from differentiating between the West Bank and Israel in their operations (a law explicitly designed to force the world to treat settlements as part of Israel). Per the senators’ letter: “Effectively, that means Ben & Jerry’s can stay and sell in all of Israel, including the OPT referenced in the firm’s July 19 statement, or it can leave Israel entirely…But it cannot remain in the country in the way it publicly said it would: partially-in, partially-out” — language from three U.S. senators that explicitly defines “the country” of Israel to include the West Bank.  Commenting on the letter, Scott’s office told Fox: “Woke corporations like Ben & Jerry’s want to have their cake – or in this case, ice cream – and eat it too..Sen. Scott is committed to holding them and their parent company accountable for misleading shareholders and the public.” Also see:

 

2. On the Record

Media

Jewish Insider 1/7/22: Jewish groups, voters poised for large role in Levin-Stevens showdown in Michigan [lots of stuff re: positions on Israel/Palestine]

Washington Post 1/6/22: Congressional dysfunction is undermining U.S. human rights advocacy

Free Beacon 1/5/22: GOP Slams Biden Decision To Ignore Mandate To Disclose How Iran Sanctions Relief Funds Terrorism

Jewish Insider 1/3/22: Wisconsin treasurer forges middle path in Senate bid [“In conversation with JI, Godlewski expressed a strong affinity for Israel, not least, she said, because Golda Meir, the first female prime minister of the Jewish state, was raised in Milwaukee. ‘We have, I think, a really special relationship with Israel that goes back a long ways,’ she said, ‘and that is something that we have to continue to foster and thrive.’ ‘We have done special projects [with Israel] to help strengthen our agricultural systems here in Wisconsin and work on addressing our water quality challenges,’ Godlewski added. ‘It’s been a really important partnership.’ Godlewski has never visited Israel but said she has long wanted to go. She supports continued U.S. security assistance for Israel and rejects the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement as antisemitic. ‘I think, honestly, it creates instability for the region,’ she said of the movement, ‘which is bad for everybody.’ Godlewski said she would have voted in favor of $1 billion in supplemental funding for Israel’s Iron Dome missile-defense system that passed the House last September and is currently stalled in the Senate.”]

Fox News 12/31/21: Ocasio-Cortez staffer calls Israel a ‘racist European ethnostate’ that was built on ‘stolen land’

Politico 12/27/21: Sheldon Adelson: The Megadonor Who Underwrote the GOP’s Pro-Israel Shift

 

Israel – Palestine

Long (R-MO-7) 01/06/2022: Retweet of @mikepompeo – “In order to continue building on the success of the Abraham Accords, the United States must continue its unwavering commitment to Israel.”

Long (R-MO-7) 01/07/2022: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “The Israeli army downed a Hezbollah intelligence drone, that had a memory card with clear pictures of the militants who belong to Hezbollah’s elite intelligence unit Radwan in Lebanon. Thank you Hezbollah for the intelligence you kindly gave Israel. Link to image”

Long (R-MO-7) 01/06/2022: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “A high-ranking Israeli Foreign Ministry official confirmed during a briefing that Israel and Indonesia are working behind the scenes towards normalizing relations. #Israel #Indonesia Link to image”

Long (R-MO-7) 01/06/2022: Retweet of @AviMayer – “BREAKING: Israel to remove all countries from “red list” this evening; fully-vaccinated or recovered travelers from the United States, United Kingdom, and all other countries to be permitted entry starting Sunday.”

Fulcher (R-ID-1) 01/05/2022: Tweet – “I am joining as a cosponsor of H.R. 6004, Upholding the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Law Act of 2021. This new legislation supports the 1995 law and prohibits the use of funds for any diplomatic facility in Jerusalem other than the U.S. Embassy to Israel. More: H.R.6004 – 117th Congress (2021-2022): Upholding the 1995 Jerusalem Embassy Law Act of 2021   Link to image”

Long (R-MO-7) 01/04/2022: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “Lt.-Col Erez Sachyani (38) Major Chen Fogel (27) These are the 2 pilots who were killed the the helicopter crash off Haifa coast. Rest In Peace. Link to image”

Long (R-MO-7) 01/04/2022: Retweet of @netanyahu – “[Hebrew-language tweet translating to – “Bennett’s fraudulent government is dangerous for Israel.“ Link to image”

Omar (D-MN-5) 01/04/2022: Retweet of @mehdirhasan – “He was a proud socialist…he called climate change ‘one of the greatest moral challenges of our time’… he didn’t just call out apartheid in South Africa, he called it out Israel & the Occupied Territories, too.” Me on Desmond Tutu, his life & legacy: Link to video”

DeLauro (D-CT-3) 01/01/2022: Twitter thread – “.@UNRWA’s work is critical to supporting the Palestinian people as we advance the cause of lasting peace in the Middle East. I applaud this announcement of additional U.S. government funding, which will meet urgent humanitarian needs. Link to quoted tweet On a recent trip to Israel and the Palestinian Territories, I joined a delegation of Members where we saw first hand @UNRWA’s good work at a boys’ school in Hebron and were briefed by their offices in Gaza. This funding allows those vital efforts to continue.”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 01/01/2022: Retweet of @AIPAC – “Nearly 11,000 terror attacks against Israelis in 2021. Defeating terrorism is necessary for peace. Link to quoted tweet”

Lee (D-CA-13) 12/31/2021: Tweet – “The Palestinian people have been hit hard by COVID. After years of punitive policies under the Trump administration, this additional $99 million in assistance—bringing the total U.S. contribution to over $400 million under @POTUS—is most welcome news. Link to quoted tweet”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 12/30/2021: Retweet of @JGreenblattADL – “One of the trends we saw in 2021 that I fear will continue into 2022 is the slow but steady, unmistakable rise of antisemitism among progressive groups. I wrote about this for @PostOpinions: Perspective | Antisemitism on the left is subtler than on the right. But it’s getting worse.”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/31/2021: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “Today a Palestinian terrorist tried to stab and murder an Israeli soldier with this knife. He was shot dead. The mainstream media will tell you that he was an innocent peace-seeking angel that just wanted to cut salad. Link to image”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/31/2021: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “Anti-Semite of the year! Ben & Jerry’s Anuradha Mittal voted ‘Antisemite of the Year’… | jpost.com”

Hagerty (R-TN) 12/30/2021: Tweet – “Israel is one of our closest allies, & I’m pleased to join @SenRickScott & @SenJackyRosen’s effort to increase national-security coordination & travel between our nations by urging Israel’s addition to the Visa Waiver Program, which will provide a significant boost to TN tourism. Link to image”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 12/29/2021: Tweet – “For decades, Israel has been our best ally and the only legitimate democracy in the Middle East. We should always support Israel’s right to protect itself and counter those conducting terrorism against them. #IStandWithIsrael Link to image”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 12/30/2021: Retweet of @manuelrajunov – “No greater champion of the US-Israel relationship than my friend, Rep. Don Bacon! Link to quoted tweet”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 12/30/2021: Retweet of @AIPAC – “Thank you @RepDonBacon! #StrongerTogether Link to quoted tweet”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/30/2021: Retweet of @AdamMilstein – “Israelis understand the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement is antisemitic and promotes violence against Jews wherever they are, including in Israel. Yet many Israeli leaders still don’t seem to get it. Read my opinion article in the JPost: Does antisemitism exist in Israel? – opinion – The Jerusalem Post   Link to image”

Massie (R-KY-4) 12/29/2021: Tweet – “Will New Year’s Eve parties be the new chicken pox parties? (Twitter police: I’m not suggesting they should be, just asking. Thank you.) As COVID outbreak intensifies, Israel said mulling ‘herd immunity’ policy | The Times of Israel”

Miller-Meeks (R-IA-2) 12/29/2021: Tweet – “In September, I spoke on the House floor before voting to fully fund the Iron Dome missile defense system. Israel is a key strategic ally. Our relationship is mutually beneficial, and it is important that we work to support them whenever we can. All Four Iowans In US House Vote For $1 Billion In US Aid To Israel – KIWARadio.com | ow.ly”

Schneider (D-IL-10) 12/29/2021: Retweet of @USAmbIsrael – “So excited to see Defense Minister @GantzBe host PA President Abbas at his home last night. May this meaningful diplomacy lead to many more such confidence building measures for the New Year. It benefits us all!”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/28/2021: Retweet of @charliekirk11 – “Just so we’re clear: The New York Times, The Washington Post and even the nation of Israel are all now questioning the wisdom of recklessly administering endless booster shots Biden’s Vaccine or Bust model will go down as one of the dumbest & most dangerous policies in history”

Deutch (D-FL-22) 12/27/2021: Twitter thread – “Just over a year ago, diplomatic relations between the Kingdom of Morocco and the State of Israel were cemented w/bipartisan support from the United States. The historic agreement highlights Israel and Morocco’s shared commitment to peace, prosperity, and stability in the region. So much has been accomplished within the past year. I am eager to see the fruits of this partnership for many years to come.”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/28/2021: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “A Muslim, Christian and a Jew… It may sound like a joke, but this the reality in the Israel Defense Forces. We defend Israel shoulder to shoulder! Link to image”

Bice (R-OK-5) 12/27/2021: Tweet – “A few of Biden’s national security failures of 2021: Disastrous withdrawal from Afghanistan Ignored Cuba’s fight for freedom Failure to stand with Israel Lack of accountability for Russia’s cyber-attacks that resulted in the largest ransomware attack in history” [Re-tweeted by Norman (R-SC-5)]

Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) 12/26/2021: Tweet – “Terrorist organizations that use civilians as human shields must be sanctioned and punished to the fullest extent possible. It is incumbent upon the current Administration to implement current law and enforce these sanctions.   Bipartisan House group pushes Biden to impose Hamas, Hezbollah sanctions… | jewishinsider.com”

Guest (R-MS-3) 12/27/2021: Tweet – “2021 HIGHLIGHT – After the Squad introduced legislation to block the sale of arms that Israel uses to defend itself from Hamas, I introduced legislation to replenish Israel’s Iron Dome. I was proud to work with U.S. Senator Bill Hagerty on this important legislation.”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/27/2021: Retweet of @netanyahu – Hebrew language tweet translating to – “Israeli democracy is in danger. Gideon Saar today passed the Iranian law on the censorship of social networks in Israel in the Ministerial Committee for Legislation. At the same time, he is promoting a law that will allow searches in civilian homes without a judge’s order, and a law disqualifying candidates for prime minister. Share and join me in protest and fight against censoring and the destruction of democracy!” Link to image

Omar (D-MN-5) 12/26/2021: Retweet of @ajplus – “Anti-apartheid hero Archbishop Desmond Tutu has died aged 90. After helping to free South Africa from white-led racist rule, he spent years supporting Palestinians’ right to freedom from Israeli occupation. Link to image”

Tlaib (D-MI-13) 12/26/2021: Retweet of @AymanM – “If you choose to remember and honor Archbishop Tutu for his fight against Apartheid South Africa but you ignore his vocal criticism of the illegal occupation and unjust treatment of Palestinians, you are doing his legacy a disservice.”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/24/2021: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “Merry Christmas to all of my friends who are celebrating. Thank you to the Christian family of Israel that stands with Israel since day one. Our bond is unbreakable. God bless you. #MerryChristmas Link to image”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 12/23/2021: Retweet of @naftalibennett – “Merry Christmas to all those celebrating in Israel and around the world. Link to video”

Gallagher (R-WI-8) 12/23/2021: Retweet of @J_Insider – “A bipartisan group of lawmakers led by @RepGallagher and @RepTomSuozzi are pushing the Biden administration to impose sanctions on Hamas and Hezbollah officials for their alleged use of human shields in conflicts with Israel, @marcrod97 reports. Bipartisan House group pushes Biden to impose Hamas, Hezbollah sanctions… | jewishinsider.com”

Garbarino (R-NY-2) 12/24/2021: Retweet of @AJCGlobal – “Thank you to the 14  [American flag] Members of Congress, from both parties, and [Canadian flag] MPs who joined AJC’s Transatlantic Friends of Israel (TFI) this year. We look forward to working with you in 2022 to strengthen Israel’s critical bond with the the U.S., Canada, and Europe. Link to image” [also re-tweeted by Gimenez (R-FL-26), Johnson (R-OH-6)]

Gottheimer (D-NJ-5) 12/23/2021: Tweet – “We simply cannot tolerate antisemitism, hate or bigotry — not on campuses, in the halls of Congress, or anywhere in our communities. I recently had the opportunity to speak on this critical issue at @RutgersHillel Gottheimer takes fight against antisemitism to Rutgers… | jewishstandard.timesofisrael.com”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/24/2021: Retweet of @HananyaNaftali – “Merry Christmas from Haifa! #Israel Link to video”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/24/2021: Retweet of @RepSteveIsrael – “Your must-read holiday book list from members of Congress Your must-read holiday book list from members of Congress | TheHill”

 

Iran

Fallon (R-TX-4) 01/07/2022: Tweet – “Looking forward to a great event. Be sure to tune in!” Link to quoted tweet from “Iranians Americans for Liberty” – “Mark your calendars: Our first Congressional Meet & Greet of 2022 will be held on January 19th with @RepPatFallon from Texas’s 4th Congressional District! This event will be live-streamed from IAL’s YouTube page. Subscribe now:”

Good (R-VA-5) 01/07/2022: Tweet – “Twitter provides a platform to the Ayatollah, CCP, and Taliban but not to Donald Trump, MTG, and Joe Rogan and his guests. Proud to co-sponsor @RepJimBanks’ H.R. 2000”

Green (R-TN-7) 01/06/2022: Tweet – “President Biden’s lack of transparency is dangerous and deeply concerning. Despite the fact that Iran is a leading state sponsor of terror AND backs the Taliban, this Administration is just fine keeping Congress in the dark. This cannot stand. Link to quoted tweet”

Lesko (R-AZ-8) 01/07/2022: Tweet – “Censorship is inherently un-American. If we do not hold Big Tech accountable now, the censorship and fact checking will only get worse. Link to quoted tweet”

Tenney (R-NY-22) 01/06/2022: Tweet – “Complying with the laws passed by Congress isn’t a choice for the Executive Branch – it’s the law! GOP Slams Biden Decision To Ignore Mandate To Disclose How Iran Sanctions Relief Funds Terrorism – Washington Free Beacon”

Tenney (R-NY-22) 01/07/2022: Tweet – “As Iran threatens U.S. officials and orchestrates attacks against U.S. personnel, the Biden Administration is chasing the mullahs around Europe begging them for a deal. It’s wrong. End the #IranTalks & reimpose pressure.”

Banks (R-IN-3) 01/05/2022: Tweet – “Biden vowed to defy a statute that he himself signed into law that requires him to tell Congress how much money he’s sending to Iran-backed terrorists. He knows his admin’s sanctions relief enriches terrorists, and he’s trying to cover it up. @Kredo0 GOP Slams Biden Decision To Ignore Mandate To Disclose How Iran Sanctions Relief Funds Terrorism – Washington Free Beacon”

Fallon (R-TX-4) 01/05/2022: Tweet – “Let me be clear – if this Administration allows Iran to obtain a nuclear weapon, it would be globally ????????????.”

Fallon (R-TX-4) 01/05/2022: Tweet – “Rules for thee, but not for me. This is unacceptable — Congress deserves to know exactly what this Administration is doing in Iran. Link to quoted tweet” Retweeted by Hern (R-OK-1)

Green (R-TN-7) 01/05/2022: Twitter thread – “The failed withdrawal from Afghanistan motivated tyrants and despots around the world into thinking “now is our chance.” /1 Whether that’s Vladimir Putin lining up troops on the Ukrainian border, Xi Jinping sending aircraft into Taiwanese airspace, or Iran launching drones against American troops. It’s happening because we have one of the weakest presidents sitting in the Oval Office. /2 Link to video”

Tenney (R-NY-22) 01/06/2022: Tweet – “The regime in Iran threatened a former U.S. President and Secretary of State. The Biden Administration’s silence is abhorrent. Defend American values and citizens! We should walk away from #IranTalks immediately and act swiftly to impose real costs.”

Fallon (R-TX-4) 01/04/2022: Tweet – “This Administration has decided to go back to the negotiating table with the world’s largest state sponsor of terrorism. Check out my op-ed explaining why it is imperative that America must operate from a position of strength. It’s time for Iran to concede, not the United States… | thehill.com”

Green (R-TN-7) 01/04/2022: Tweet – “Joined @FoxBusiness to discuss Iran’s vow of revenge after terrorist Qasem Soleimani was taken out in 2020: Link to video”

Green (R-TN-7) 01/05/2022: Tweet – “Iran knows what it can get away with under a weak President Biden. The Biden Team Knows Its Iran Policy Is Failing… | foreignpolicy.com”

Loudermilk (R-GA-11) 01/04/2022: Twitter thread – “[1/3] If you’re tired of seeing Twitter censor and ban conservative voices on its platform while still allowing the Chinese Communist Party, the Ayatollah, and the Taliban to tweet freely, join me on #GETTR. [2/3] If you’re tired of seeing Twitter target conservative voices on its platform because we dare challenge the status quo and #MSM, join me on #GETTR. [3/3] If you love freedom, the First Amendment, and want to express yourself without fear of being flagged, censored, or banned…follow me on my #GETTR account Rep. Barry Loudermilk… | gettr.com”

Bacon (R-NE-2) 01/03/2022: Retweet of @mikepompeo – “Qasem Soleimani was actively engaged in plotting against America. We took lawful military action to make sure that no Americans were killed. American leadership now has the responsibility to keep every American safe against the threat from Iran. Link to video”

Banks (R-IN-3) 01/03/2022: Tweet – “Iran’s most egregious nuclear advances took place under Biden and met no consequences. Team Biden’s blaming Trump for Biden’s own policy failure on Iran is cowardly and dishonest. The Biden Team Knows Its Iran Policy Is Failing… | foreignpolicy.com”

Bilirakis (R-FL-12) 01/03/2022: Tweet – “Big Tech’s track record of censoring conservative voices on its platforms while allowing the world’s most radical regimes to continue spewing dangerous rhetoric is a failure of leadership. We must hold them accountable for their lack of equal application of terms of use for all. Link to quoted tweet”

Franklin (R-FL-15) 01/03/2022: Tweet – “Iran is a state sponsor of terrorism and U.S. adversary. Their new drone program is a destabilizing force in the Middle East. @POTUS can’t enter an agreement with Iran while this threat exists. 2 armed drones intercepted as they approached Iraqi base hosting US troops: report… | foxnews.com”

Long (R-MO-7) 01/04/2022: Retweet of @GOPChairwoman – “2 years ago, President Trump ordered a strike that killed Iran’s top terrorist Qasem Soleimani. Biden said he opposed the strike, and has worked to lift sanctions on the terrorist-funding Iranian regime.”

Malliotakis (R-NY-11) 01/04/2022: Tweet – “In 2021, we successfully pushed back on BBB, packing the court & anti-police legislation. Congress passed my measure to require transparency about Iran’s actions & laws I cosponsored to support ALS treatment & provide service dogs to veterans with PTSD. Malliotakis Recaps First Year In Office: 4,127 Cases Closed, $29 Million Returned to NY-11… | bit.ly   Link to image”

McCaul (R-TX-10) 01/03/2022: Tweet – “LR @RepMcCaul: “We need to STOP these drones. That’s why I introduced the Stop Iranian Drones Act so the world knows the US will cut off Iran’s UAV supplies and punish those who continue to supply Iran with UAVs and parts.”Coalition: 2 armed drones shot down at Baghdad airport | AP News”

Scalise (R-LA-1) 01/03/2022: Tweet – “If Twitter actually cared about “misinformation” they would’ve banned the Chinese Communist Party. Or the Taliban. Or the Ayatollah. Or Dems pushing the Russia collusion hoax. But instead they choose to go after elected Republican officials. We will hold Big Tech accountable.” Retweeted by Bishop (R-NC-9), Long (R-MO-7), Long (R-MO-7), Hice (R-GA-10), Lamborn (R-CO-5), Reschenthaler (R-PA-14), Aderholt (R-AL-4)

Risch (R-ID) 01/03/2022: Tweet – “It’s been 2yrs since the drone strike on IRGC commander #QassemSoleimani, who was responsible for endless violence. While unproductive talks resume in Vienna, the #Iranians continue their aggression targeting U.S. troops in #Iraq early this morning. Link to quoted tweet”

Gooden (R-TX-5) 01/02/2022: Tweet – “Big Tech companies allow terrorists like the Taliban and the Iranian Ayatollah on their platforms, but they BAN President Trump & now a sitting member of Congress, @mtgreenee. An absolute disgrace. We must break up Big Tech.”

Banks (R-IN-3) 12/31/2021: Tweet – “It is not the US sanctions, but Biden’s withdrawal from Afghanistan and his attempt to restore the deal with Iran that push Iran and the Taliban together. U.S. Sanctions Push Iran and Afghanistan’s Taliban Together… | wsj.com”

Franklin (R-FL-15) 12/31/2021: Tweet – “.@POTUS must not enter into an agreement with the reckless Iranian regime. America must stay committed to working with and protecting our allies. This starts by enforcing stricter sanctions on Iran, limiting its ability to enrich uranium. Iran expects Biden will cave in ‘presumably final round’ of nuclear talks… | washingtonexaminer.com”

Murphy (D-CT) 01/01/2022: Tweet – “Like the “consequences” imposed by Trump? The “consequences” that caused Iran to start shooting at our troops at will, and restart their shuttered nuclear research program, and supersize their support for anti-American proxies? You mean “consequences” like that? Link to quoted tweet”

Moore (R-UT-1) 12/29/2021: Retweet of @thehill – “Beyond sanctions and strikes: A new Iran strategy” (@TheHillOpinion) Beyond sanctions and strikes: A new Iran strategy… | hill.cm   Link to image”

Murphy (D-CT) 12/29/2021: Tweet – “The legacy of Trump’s dumpster fire Iran policy: “The difference between Iran’s reach in 2016 and in 2021 is “simply remarkable,” a senior naval intelligence officer said. The Looming Threat of a Nuclear Crisis with Iran | The New Yorker”

Greene (R-GA-14) 12/27/2021: Twitter thread – “1. I just got off the phone with my favorite President of all time, Donald J. Trump. We discussed many issues…Iran was ready to sign a deal and now they aren’t afraid of Biden. No one is…” [NOTE: ths account has since been suspended]

Cotton (R-AR) 12/28/2021: Tweet – “Biden’s response to our adversaries is dangerously naive. “The Biden administration and democratic leaders world-wide need to accept that these men don’t want what we want, and that the arc of history doesn’t always bend toward justice.” Opinion | What Putin, Xi and Khamenei Want”

Cotton (R-AR) 12/28/2021: Retweet of @AaronBMacLean – “Me in @WSJopinion. Putin, Xi, and Khamenei are not figures of the 19th century–and they have no intention of building back better. Opinion | What Putin, Xi and Khamenei Want”

Boyle (D-PA-2) 12/27/2021: Tweet – “I join @NazaninBoniadi and all those worldwide calling upon the Iranian government to release Nazanin Zaghari-Ratiffe. #FreeNazanin now! Link to quoted tweet”

Schneider (D-IL-10) 12/24/2021: Twitter thread – “Today, in a clear violation of UNSCR 2231, Iran test fired 16 ballistic missiles. Iran says it fired 16 ballistic missiles during annual drill… | dailyherald.com The international community, through the United Nations resolution, prohibits Iran from taking any action with respect to ballistic missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons – including launches using ballistic missile technology. Such blatant activity, with specific threats to the United States and Israel, are a threat to the entire region and the world. It is imperative that the United States and our allies use every means available to stop Iran’s accelerating advance to a nuclear bomb.”

 

Egypt

Khanna (D-CA-17) 12/30/2021: Tweet – “Egypt must immediately release all prisoners of conscience, including Ramy Shaath, Alaa Abd El Fattah, Mohamed al-Baqer & Mohamed Radwan Oxygen. Such inhumane treatment of pro-democracy activists must end. @FreeRamyShaath @EgyptEmbassyUSA Link to quoted tweet”

Malliotakis (R-NY-11) 12/30/2021: Tweet – “Our office was happy to celebrate the citizenship of an 88-year-old immigrant from Egypt. In our first year, we’ve helped 36 immigrants become U.S. citizens. We’re happy to help those who did everything right but got caught in red tape & bureaucracy achieve their American dream. Link to image”

 

Saudi Arabia

Long (R-MO-7) 12/30/2021: Retweet of @newsmax – “United States navy vessels seized 385 kilograms (849 pounds) of heroin in the Arabian Sea worth some $4 million, in a major bust by the international maritime operation in the region, officials said Thursday. US Navy Seizes $4 Million Worth of Heroin in Arabian Sea… | newsmax.com”

Long (R-MO-7) 12/26/2021: Tweet – “⁦@AMCTheatres⁩ was expected to dominate the #Saudi cinema market when the kingdom’s movie #theaters reopened in 2018. Instead, local competitors have leapfrogged the American giant. AMC Lags Behind in Saudi Arabia’s Surprisingly Competitive Cinema Market – WSJ”

Omar (D-MN-5) 12/26/2021: Retweet of @tparsi – “Congresswoman @IlhanMN rightfully criticizes @JoeBiden for breaking his promise to end the war in Yemen. “We should be using diplomacy to bring an end to Saudi Arabia’s brutal campaign in Yemen, not perpetuating it,” she said. Biden Went Soft on Saudi Arabia. Now Democrats in Congress Are, Too…. | thedailybeast.com”

Khanna (D-CA-17) 12/24/2021: Tweet – “US support for the Saudi-led war in Yemen is morally indefensible. It must end.”

Markey (D-MA) 12/23/2021: Tweet – “Reports that China is aiding Saudi Arabia’s ballistic missile program are deeply alarming, but not surprising. Congress must pass my Saudi WMD Act to prevent an illicit Saudi weapons program which could spark an arms race in that region. Link to quoted tweet”

 

Syria

Khanna (D-CA-17) 01/07/2022: Tweet – “It’s time to de-escalate in Syria — a war Congress has never authorized. I was proud to cosponsor @RepBowman’s NDAA amendment to require withdrawal of all US troops from Syria without congressional authorization. Link to quoted tweet”

McCaul (R-TX-10) 01/06/2022: Twitter thread – “LR @RepMcCaul: “Deeply concerned about reports of #Russian/#CSTO forces being sent to #Kazakhstan to quell protests. I urge all sides to exercise restraint, engage peacefully, respect Kazakhstan’s democratic institutions and international commitments, and prevent more casualties. “Russia’s interventions in response to protests from Belarus to Syria have had devastating consequences for the people of those countries and must be monitored closely.”

McCaul (R-TX-10) 01/05/2022: Tweet – “LR @RepMcCaul ‘I strongly condemn the repeated attacks on US and coalition targets in Iraq and Syria over the last several days. These dangerous provocations are unacceptable and run the risk of incurring casualties and leading to escalation. These attacks MUST end.'”

DeFazio (D-OR-4) 01/05/2022: Twitter thread – “It’s been 7 weeks since I led a bipartisan letter to the Biden Adm asking their legal basis for ongoing US military involvement in Syria. Still no response. These recent strikes are only the latest in an escalating military conflict that Congress has not authorized. Link to quoted tweet .@POTUS must stop our endless wars.”

DeFazio (D-OR-4) 01/05/2022: Retweet of @justfp – “Pres. Biden says he supports Congress’s constitutional role in authorizing war but hasn’t answered basic Qs — even after 140 House members voted to end unauthorized war in Syria. @POTUS @WHNSC must respect Congress, not maintain Trump’s lawless wars. Over 30 lawmakers question Biden’s legal reasoning for strikes… | politico.com   Link to quoted tweet”

Gaetz (R-FL-1) 01/04/2022: Retweet of @joekent16jan19 – “Our troops in Iraq & Syria only serve as targets for Iran & their proxy groups. In Iraq, we fund & support Iranian backed militias as they attempt to kill our troops. Pull out of Iraq & cut off foreign aid to Iraq until the Iraqi gov separates itself from Iran. Link to quoted tweet”

Gonzales (R-TX-23) 12/28/2021: Tweet – “On Christmas Day BP agents told me they recently caught folks on the terrorist watch list from Syria and Egypt. These captures have become a regular occurrence. It’s not a matter of IF but WHEN Americans die due to this Administrations [sic] negligence. Link to quoted tweet” [Re-tweeted by Tiffany (R-WI-7)]

 

Turkey

Biggs (R-AZ-5) 12/31/2021: Retweet of @FAIRImmigration – “Border Patrol agents pick up migrants from Turkey as part of arrivals from dozens of countries Border Patrol agents pick up migrants from Turkey as part of arrivals from dozens of countries… | fxn.ws via @FoxNews @AdamShawNY”

Pallone (D-NJ-6) 12/28/2021: Tweet – “The NDAA that President Biden signed yesterday includes important provisions aimed at holding Azerbaijan & Turkey accountable for the war crimes they committed in Artsakh. I will push to ensure the required reports are accurate in documenting these crimes.Biden Signs $770 Billion Defense Bill… | nytimes.com”

 

Yemen

Biggs (R-AZ-5) 12/28/2021: Retweet of @BillFOXLA – “In April, CBP deleted their own press release about two Yemeni men on the terror watch list who were caught by Border Patrol at the border in El Centro. CBP cited “national security” concerns as a reason for the removal. CBP DELETES press release outlining arrest of two Yemeni border crossers on FBI terror watchlist | Daily Mail Online”

 

United Arab Emirates

McCaul (R-TX-10) 01/06/2022: Twitter thread – “LR @RepMcCaul ‘I am deeply concerned by the Houthis’ seizure of a UAE-flagged merchant vessel. The world cannot tolerate interference with the freedom of navigation. ‘I urge the administration and the international community to respond strongly to this dangerous behavior to ensure the safety of ships, seafarers, and international commerce.’”

Ernst (R-IA) 12/31/2021: Tweet – “God bless the men & women of the @IowaNatGuard 185th Air Refueling Wing—and all of our troops serving in uniform. 185th members assisting in United Arab Emirates… | siouxlandproud.com”

Davidson (R-OH-8) 01/04/2022: Tweet – “Given the importance of UAE as a financial hub, it would be great to see their government focus on a more aggressive approach to illicit finance. Money should be a means of exchange and store of value, not a tool for illicit activity. UAE Faces Risk of Inclusion on Global Watchlist Over Dirty Money… | news.yahoo.com via @YahooNews”

 

Tunisia

Deutch (D-FL-22) 01/05/2022: Twitter thread – “I was pleased to see that Tunisian President Saïed finally announced a timeline outlining a path for political reform and parliamentary elections. (1/3) I am closely monitoring the situation and remain concerned particularly since the timeline as announced continues to suspend parliament until after the next election slated for Dec. 2022. The Tunisian people want and deserve a transparent government by and for the people. (2/3) I am eager to see the reform process unfold inclusively and urge President Saïed to seek consensus on Tunisia’s future with input from diverse political and civil society voices. (3/3)”

 

Libya

Deutch (D-FL-22) 01/05/2022: Twitter thread – “I’m proud of the progress the Libyan people have made to move their country towards national elections. Two weeks ago, the Libyan High National Election Commission postponed presidential elections slated for Dec. 24 due to broad agreement that holding elections… (1/5) … under the current legal framework would lead to civil unrest. The Libyan people overwhelmingly want to choose their next government and they have a right to do so in an environment free from violence and intimidation, and with a clearly defined legal framework. (2/5) I acknowledge and appreciate the engagement of senior U.S. officials, including Special Envoy and Ambassador Richard Norland, along with UN Special Advisor Ms. Stephanie Williams and Libyan officials, civil society, and members of the international community. (3/5) I support the decision to ensure elections are free and fair and urge all parties to support continued nonviolence and sustained dialogue. (4/5) All parties involved must remain committed to advancing these objectives and ensuring that presidential and parliamentary elections are conducted as soon as practicable. (5/5)”

Fulcher (R-ID-1) 12/27/2021: Tweet – “It has been almost 10 years since the attack on the Consulate in Benghazi, when 4 brave Americans lost their lives. I am again cosponsoring a bill that would award those Americans the Congressional Medal of Honor for their heroic efforts that day. More: Cosponsors – H.R.310 – 117th Congress (2021-2022): To posthumously award the Congressional Gold Medal, collectively, to Glen Doherty, Tyrone Woods, J. Christopher Stevens, and Sean Smith, in recognition of their contributions to the Nation.   Link to image”

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