Hoosier State Today

U.S. Senators Todd Young and Ted Cruz have addressed a letter to U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, Linda Thomas-Greenfield, expressing concerns over Palestinian efforts to suspend Israel from the UN General Assembly. The letter outlines potential responses, including limiting American funding and participation across the UN and reevaluating the U.S.-Palestinian relationship.

The senators stated, "Regarding the U.S.-UN relationship, America’s participation in international organizations is predicated on that participation advancing American national security interests." They emphasized Israel's importance as an ally in the Middle East and warned of steps they would take if Israel were suspended from the UN General Assembly.

The letter also discusses commitments made by Palestinians under agreements such as the Oslo Accords. It mentions that any move by President Abbas to suspend Israel would violate these commitments, prompting a reevaluation of U.S.-Palestinian relations. This could include downgrading cooperation with Palestinian authorities and ending assistance to regions like the West Bank and Gaza.

In addition to Young and Cruz, other senators including Rick Scott, Dan Sullivan, Marco Rubio, John Barrasso, Pete Ricketts, Roger Wicker, Tim Scott Deb Fischer, and Tommy Tuberville signed the letter.

The document also references existing American antiterrorism sanctions against both the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and Palestinian Authority (PA), which are currently moderated by licenses and waivers. Should actions proceed against Israel at the UN General Assembly level, further sanctions may be considered.

The full text of their correspondence is available for public viewing.