Reevaluating US Aid to Israel: The Growing Call for Conditions and Oversight

Lawmakers on Capitol Hill are openly discussing the idea of conditioning US aid to Israel, marking a significant shift in a long-standing taboo. The conversation has been driven by concerns about Israel's conduct in its war against Hamas, including the climbing death toll and worsening conditions for Palestinian civilians in Gaza, as well as a perceived lack of interest in pursuing a two-state solution. While conditions are unlikely to be implemented in the near term, the willingness to discuss the topic represents a sea change in Washington. Democrats, including progressive members, are leading the conversation, but even those opposed to the idea acknowledge that it is a fair discussion to have. The mainstreaming of conditioning aid has been influenced by factors such as greater access to information and efforts by groups like J Street. However, Congress remains largely pro-Israel, and the House continues to pass resolutions affirming support for Israel without conditions.