Duval Times

Senator Rick Scott, alongside Senators Jim Risch and Tom Cotton, has announced the introduction of the Stand with Israel Act. This legislative initiative is backed by 26 other senators and aims to cease U.S. funding to United Nations (UN) agencies that expel, downgrade, suspend, or restrict Israel's participation. The announcement was made in anticipation of the Senate and House reconvening in November.

The proposed legislation is a response to actions by the Palestinian Authority at the UN, which have reportedly aimed to alter Israel's status. Senator Rick Scott criticized the UN's handling of human rights issues, stating, “Unfortunately, the UN has lost almost all credibility on human rights. They coddle regimes like Iran while allowing the extremists to condemn Israel.”

Senator Jim Risch expressed his concerns about potential changes to Israel’s status at the UN as being "clearly anti-Semitic." He added that any such attempts would necessitate a reevaluation of U.S. support for the UN system.

Echoing these sentiments, Senator Tom Cotton stated that any move against Israel at the behest of organizations like the Palestine Liberation Organization would be met with severe consequences. Senator Chuck Grassley emphasized Israel's significance as "the only democracy in the Middle East and a cherished ally of the United States."

Other senators voiced their support for this legislation as well. Senator Bill Cassidy stated that any attempts to reduce Israel’s status should incur significant costs. Meanwhile, Senator Dan Sullivan highlighted antisemitism within the UN and stressed its negative impact on its mission.

Senator Steve Daines remarked on Israel's democratic role in the Middle East and described any discrimination against it by the UN as outrageous. Senator Mike Lee called out anti-Semitic actors within the UN and reiterated U.S. commitment against such biases.

The Stand with Israel Act complements a bipartisan House bill led by Representative Mike Lawler (R-N.Y.). The initiative underscores ongoing tensions between certain factions within international bodies regarding Israel's diplomatic standing.

Reports indicate that recent moves by the Palestinian Authority could potentially lead to efforts to downgrade Israel’s status at upcoming UN sessions.