Rockland Reporter

Congressmen Mike Lawler and Jared Moskowitz have spearheaded a bipartisan letter, signed by over 100 members of the U.S. House of Representatives, opposing efforts by the Palestinian Authority to downgrade Israel's status at the United Nations. The letter, which was endorsed by various organizations including AIPAC and JINSA, warns of serious repercussions if such actions are taken.

The lawmakers stated, "Any downgrade in Israel’s status or standing at the UNGA will result in a corresponding downgrade of U.S. financial, material and political support to the UN." They further emphasized concerns about UN actions perceived as delegitimizing Israel's right to self-defense and questioned future U.S. funding to the UN.

"Congress has taken note of the numerous UN actions aimed to delegitimize Israel’s right to self-defense," they wrote. "We remind you that the U.S. is the largest donor to the UN."

Congressman Lawler commented on the bipartisan nature of this initiative: "This letter lets UN Secretary-General Guterres and the Palestinian Authority know that any action to undermine Israel will have dire consequences." He highlighted broad support for Israel within Congress.

Lawler has been active in supporting Israel during his tenure in Congress. Earlier this year, he introduced the Stand With Israel Act with Congressman Moskowitz, aiming to withhold U.S. funding from UN agencies that restrict Israeli participation. Last year, Lawler also introduced legislation against anti-Israel boycotts alongside Congressman Gottheimer.

The bipartisan effort underscores ongoing U.S. support for Israel amid international tensions regarding its status at global institutions.