Austin News

U.S. Senator Ted Cruz, along with several colleagues, has addressed a letter to U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield concerning Palestinian efforts to suspend Israel from the UN General Assembly. The letter outlines potential actions in response, such as reducing American funding and participation in the UN and reassessing the U.S.-Palestinian relationship.

The senators emphasized that "America’s participation in international organizations is predicated on that participation advancing American national security interests." They described Israel as "America’s closest ally in the Middle East," a region they consider geopolitically critical. The letter warns of limiting American involvement and funding across various UN bodies if Israel is suspended.

The letter also addresses the implications for U.S.-Palestinian relations, referencing agreements dating back to the Oslo Accords. It states that these agreements committed Palestinians not to internationalize their conflict with Israel outside bilateral negotiations traditionally mediated by the United States. The proposal by President Abbas is seen as violating these commitments, prompting a call for reevaluation of U.S.-Palestinian ties.

This reevaluation could involve downgrading cooperation with the Palestinian Authority (PA), ending assistance to certain regions, and closing Palestinian-related offices within the U.S. government. The letter further mentions existing American antiterrorism sanctions against both the Palestine Liberation Organization (PLO) and PA, which could be expanded if necessary.

Senator Cruz was joined by Senators Rick Scott, Dan Sullivan, Marco Rubio, John Barrasso, Pete Ricketts, Roger Wicker, Tim Scott, Deb Fischer, Todd Young, and Tommy Tuberville in signing this communication.

The full content of their message can be read below:

"Ambassador Thomas-Greenfield:

In the coming months... [content continues unchanged]"