Los Angeles, California — The Israeli-American Civic Action Network (ICAN) today expresses its deep appreciation to the United States Congress and President for passing and signing into law the Second FY24 Package – Further Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2024. This legislative package fortifies the strategic alliance between the United States and Israel and takes significant steps toward enhancing security and stability throughout the region.
The Second FY24 Package includes provisions emphasizing the depth and breadth of the U.S.-Israel relationship, including:
- $3.3 Billion in Foreign Military Financing (FMF)Â to support Israel’s defense capabilities, ensuring Israel maintains its qualitative military edge in the region.
- $500 Million in Missile Defense Funding, which includes continued support for the Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow missile defense systems, essential for protecting Israeli citizens from external threats.
- Prohibition of Funding for UN Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and UN Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), unless certified they are meeting transparency standards and not supporting anti-Israel bias. This aligns with ICAN’s stance against organizations exhibiting systemic bias against Israel.
- $2 Million for the Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Antisemitism, emphasizing the U.S. commitment to combating global antisemitism, a core concern of ICAN.
- Strengthens vetting related to the boycott, divestment, and sanctions (BDS) movement, including imposing new transparency requirements on the Office of Palestinian Affairs, reflecting ICAN’s opposition to the BDS movement and its impact on Israel​​.
- New conditions on any assistance to Gaza, including mechanisms for coordination with Israel, prevention of fund diversion to Hamas or other terrorist entities, and a requirement for third-party monitoring, addressing ICAN’s concerns about ensuring aid does not support hostile activities against Israel​​.
- Support for the Abraham Accords, encouraging further normalization agreements between Israel and its Arab neighbors, enhancing regional peace and stability.
- Funding for Joint U.S.-Israel Energy and Water Projects, fostering innovation and cooperation in critical sectors and supporting environmental sustainability.
ICAN views these provisions as critical to safeguarding Israel’s security and fostering an environment conducive to peace and prosperity in the Middle East. This package’s appropriations and policy directives testify to the enduring alliance between the United States and Israel.
ICAN remains committed to working closely with U.S. lawmakers, community leaders, and all stakeholders to continue advancing the cause of a secure, prosperous, and peaceful Israel.
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