Rep. Gillen Statement on Rep. Massie’s Amendment to Eliminate U.S. Aid to Israel

July 15, 2026 Press Release WASHINGTON, DC — Congresswoman Laura Gillen (NY-04) released a statement on Rep. Thomas Massie’s (R-KY) amendment that would cut all funding for Israel from the National Security, Department of State, and Related Programs Appropriations Act: "The State of Israel is one of our most important allies and the only democracy in the Middle East. I firmly support Israel’s right to exist and defend itself from threats, including Iran and terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. This extremely harmful amendment would threaten our strategic alliance, undermine our national security interests and eliminate funding for important research and diplomacy in the region, including the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act, which supports Israeli-Palestinian people-to-people initiatives. That is why I staunchly opposed it. In Congress, I remain committed to ensuring the U.S.-Israel relationship remains a bipartisan issue and promoting peace, stability and a better future in the region." ###