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US House Democratic Leader Jeffries wants 'dramatic change' in Middle East
Jeffries said Washington’s current approach is no longer sustainable and urged a reassessment of the $3.8 billion annual military aid agreement with Israel.
On Thursday, House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries called for "dramatic change" in U.S. policy toward Israel, Gaza, and the West Bank, reaffirming support for a two-state solution at a press conference.
Jeffries' remarks followed a proposal by Democratic Senator Chris Van Hollen and 11 other senators to remove the "U.S.-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative" from the National Defense Authorization Act.
While stopping short of endorsing the senators' proposal, Jeffries indicated the existing framework governing U.S. military assistance should be reconsidered; the Memorandum of Understanding provides $3.8 billion annually.
Democrats face internal pressure over military aid, as many members campaigned against it during recent midterm elections, placing party leadership under scrutiny as they prepare to take control of Congress.
The current Memorandum of Understanding expires in 2028, and Jeffries emphasized the status quo is "unacceptable," envisioning a secure Israel living side by side with an independent Palestinian state.