Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress Senate Bill SB1647

Introduced
5/17/23  

Caption

Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad International Terrorism Support Prevention Act of 2023

Impact

If enacted, SB1647 will significantly affect U.S. foreign policy towards nations perceived to be supporting these terrorist organizations. It mandates the President to impose sanctions on foreign individuals, agencies, and governments identified as providing support to Hamas or related groups. This includes stipulations for regular reporting to Congress about the measures foreign governments are taking to disrupt fundraising and financing activities for these organizations. By applying pressure at multiple levels, the bill seeks to undermine the networks that facilitate terrorist activities and enhance U.S. national security interests.

Summary

Senate Bill 1647, titled the 'Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad International Terrorism Support Prevention Act of 2023,' aims to impose targeted sanctions against foreign support for recognized terrorist organizations operating in Gaza and the West Bank, specifically targeting Hamas and the Palestinian Islamic Jihad. This legislation reflects the United States' ongoing strategy to curb financial and material support for groups that threaten regional stability and security. The bill encompasses sanctions not only on those directly aiding terrorist organizations but also on foreign governments providing material support.

Contention

Debates surrounding SB1647 may center on the implications of imposing sanctions on foreign governments and their regional consequences. Critics may argue that such actions could exacerbate tensions and hinder diplomatic relations while supporters assert that denial of resources to terrorist organizations is crucial for promoting peace in the Middle East. Furthermore, the bill allows the President limited discretion to waive sanctions on a case-by-case basis, raising concerns about potential misuse or selective enforcement depending on diplomatic relations, which could lead to internal political disputes.

Companion Bills

US HB340

Related Hamas International Financing Prevention Act This bill imposes sanctions targeting Hamas, the Palestinian Islamic Jihad, and any affiliate or successor groups. The President must periodically report to Congress a list of each foreign person (individual or entity) that knowingly provides significant support or services to or is involved in a significant transaction with a senior member or supporter of the targeted groups. The President must impose two or more sanctions on the named persons. Specifically, the person may be (1) denied credit and services from the Export-Import Bank, (2) barred from purchasing certain controlled defense articles, (3) denied exports of items on the U.S. Munitions List, (4) prevented from receiving exports of certain goods or technology controlled for national security reasons, (5) prohibited from receiving financing of more than $10 million from any U.S. financial institution, or (6) subject to property-blocking restrictions. The President must periodically report to Congress a list of foreign governments that have repeatedly provided material support for the targeted groups' terrorist activities. The President shall bar these governments from receiving for one year (1) U.S. assistance, or (2) exports of controlled munitions. The Department of the Treasury must instruct U.S. leadership of international financial institutions to oppose providing assistance to an identified government for one year. The bill provides for certain exceptions and waivers, such as for transactions that would serve U.S. national interests. The President must report to Congress and periodically provide briefings on other specified topics related to the targeted groups, such as where these groups secure financing and surveillance equipment.

US SB3874

Related Hamas and Palestinian Islamic Jihad International Terrorism Support Prevention Act of 2024

Similar Bills

No similar bills found.