56 rights groups urge Congress to drop provision deepening US-Israel military ties

A coalition of 56 civil rights and human rights groups is urging Congress to remove Section 219 of the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, saying it would accelerate U.S.-Israeli military technology cooperation through licensing, joint ventures, and U.S.-based co-production partnerships—creating new risks and points of influence for Israel within the American defense-technology ecosystem. The groups argue that the move is especially dangerous as U.S. public support for Israel has weakened during the Gaza war and as reported Israeli actions in Gaza and increased settler violence in the West Bank have raised concerns about violations of international humanitarian law. The provision passed the House in July and is pending Senate action, with congressional efforts to strip it earlier—though unsuccessful—already underway. Supporters say deeper ties could speed defense innovation, but the coalition says American interests and opinion are diverging from Israel’s. The debate comes amid broader questions about the future of U.S. military support, including Netanyahu’s stated aim to wean Israel off U.S. assistance within a decade and the looming expiration in 2028 of a memorandum of understanding providing about $3.8 billion annually. A spokesperson for the Israeli Embassy did not immediately respond to comment requests on the campaign against the provision.