Lankford, Risch, and Senate Allies Push Bill to Defend Israel at the United Nations

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK — U.S. Senator James Lankford (R-OK), alongside Senator Jim Risch (R-ID), Ranking Member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has introduced the Stand with Israel Act, a new piece of legislation aimed at halting U.S. funding to United Nations entities that take action against Israel’s status or participation. The bill targets UN agencies that suspend, downgrade, or otherwise discriminate against Israel—a key American ally in the Middle East. “Israel is our strongest and most consistent ally in the region,” said Lankford. “The U.S. should never fund antisemitic actions at the UN. This bill sends a strong message: if you target Israel, you lose American support.” Risch added, “Under previous leadership, the U.S. made it clear that antisemitism at the UN would not be tolerated. This legislation reinforces that position—we will stand with our ally Israel and cut off funds to any UN group that disrespects our values or partners.” The bill has received backing from a broad group of Senate Republicans, including Senators Tom Cotton, Ted Budd, Mike Lee, Lindsey Graham, Joni Ernst, Katie Britt, Josh Hawley, and many others. Background: Senator Lankford originally introduced this legislation in 2024, following a pattern set by prior U.S. policies that deny funding to any UN body recognizing the Palestinian Authority as a member state. As co-chair of the Senate Bipartisan Task Force for Combating Antisemitism, Lankford continues to advocate for global religious freedom and the safety of Jewish communities. He recently visited Israel, where he met with survivors of the October 7 attacks, toured border towns near Gaza and Lebanon, and engaged directly with affected families. Full bill text is available through the official Stand with Israel Act webpage.Lankford, Risch, and Senate Allies Push Bill to Defend Israel at the United Nations