Jeffries pledges new approach to Israel policy if Democrats retake House majority

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced on Thursday, July 13, 2026, that if Democrats win the House majority in the upcoming midterm elections, the party will implement a new, “broadly inclusive” approach to Israel policy. Jeffries stated that the current U.S. policy in the Middle East “has to change because the current status quo is unsustainable.” This declaration follows a recent House vote where nearly half of House Democrats supported an amendment to cut $3.3 billion in military aid to Israel, highlighting a growing division within the party.

• The new approach will be “anchored in several different principles,” including a renewed commitment to a two-state solution, recognizing Israel’s right to exist as a Jewish and democratic state, and urgently establishing an independent Palestinian state.
• Democrats will support measures for the “prosperity” of the Palestinian people, including humanitarian assistance for Gaza, its reconstruction, and modernization.
• Jeffries emphasized the need for Hamas to be disarmed and removed from power, and for perpetrators of settler violence in the West Bank to be sanctioned and prosecuted.
• Despite these changes, Jeffries affirmed that Israel remains a valuable U.S. ally in the fight against terrorism.