Congress looks at options against UN over Israel action

The topic is likely to be a significant point of questioning during the confirmation hearings of Rex Tillerson, President-elect Donald Trump's choice for secretary of state.

By MICHAEL WILNER
Updated: JANUARY 1, 2017 01:23
United States Capitol building in Washington, DC. (photo credit: REUTERS)
United States Capitol building in Washington, DC.
(photo credit: REUTERS)
NEW YORK – Republicans in both houses of Congress are preparing resolutions that would condemn the United Nations for its recent actions on Israel, as their leadership considers more drastic legislative measures that would sanction the international body.
The Senate and House resolutions – which would be nonbinding documents that put the sentiments of each chamber on the record – are intended to relay bipartisan disapproval of a vote in the UN Security Council last week that condemned Israel over its settlement enterprise, as well as its continued building in eastern sections of its capital, Jerusalem.
Rep. Dennis Ross of Florida and Sen. Jerry Moran of Kansas both expressed their intentions to introduce condemnatory resolutions within weeks. They are both hopeful they will receive support from across the aisle, as many Democrats have already come out against US President Barack Obama’s decision to abstain from the vote, allowing it to pass.
Republicans are also discussing additional legislation that would cut US funds to the UN based on its moves on Israel.
Congress appropriates roughly a quarter of the entire UN budget on an annual basis.
The topic is likely to be a significant point of questioning during the confirmation hearings of Rex Tillerson, President-elect Donald Trump’s choice for secretary of state.