Israel

Over 75 years ago, the United States was the first nation to recognize the Jewish state of Israel and affirm its right to exist. Now, in the face of senseless attacks by Iran-backed Hamas terrorists, we must again stand with Israel and reaffirm its right to defend itself. 

The Islamic Resistance Movement, also known as Hamas, is an extremist fundamentalist Islamic organization operating in the territories under Israeli control. Hamas' covenant, which was issued on August 18, 1988, promotes one ultimate goal — to destroy the State of Israel through Jihad, or Islamic Holy War.

Since 1979, Iran — the world's largest state sponsor of terrorism — has created proxy forces throughout the Middle East by supporting Hamas, Hezbollah, and other terrorist groups. Hamas has received as much as $150 million from Iran in one year, funds which are used to finance training, technology, and equipment.

We must continue to support our strongest ally in the Middle East and their right to defend themselves from these horrific attacks. The United States must provide Israel with every available resource — including sending any and all military assistance — to defend itself with overwhelming force against terrorists who will not stop until they are eliminated.

What Senator Blackburn Is Doing To Support Israel

Following the first attacks made by Hamas terrorists on the morning of October 7, 2023, Senator Blackburn immediately took action, calling on the Biden administration to send any arms necessary for Israel to protect and defend itself against terrorism.

Senator Blackburn took charge in leading members of the Tennessee delegation and 19 Senate colleagues and demanding the administration permanently freeze the $6 billion ransom payment to Iran. This deal was negotiated by the Biden administration as part of a prisoner swap — a move that served as the catalyst for Iran-backed Hamas terrorists to attack Israel.

We need to ensure the Biden administration will not release another dollar to Iran – even when the media attention on Israel dissipates – and send the $6 billion to Israel.

Additionally, Senator Blackburn has asked the administration to convene the G7 nations to jointly sanction Iran, demanded answers for violations of Iran’s Nuclear Program, and called for the removal of Jake Sullivan as National Security Advisor.

Senator Blackburn has also introduced legislation to halt all funding for the U.N. Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), which has a history of being antisemitic and employing individuals affiliated with Hamas.

The Biden Administration's Foreign Policy Failures

Since day one in office, Biden's position on Iran has always been appeasement.

The Biden administration knew sending U.S. taxpayer dollars to the Palestinians could bolster Hamas, yet President Biden sent the Palestinians $235 million in aid in 2021. 

Biden has chosen not to enforce many of the oil sanctions the U.S. previously imposed on Iran, freeing up cash for Iran to fund its terrorist proxies. 

As a result, Iranian oil production has increased substantially, and they are on track to produce the most oil since President Trump introduced sanctions in 2018. 

Biden has been desperate to negotiate another nuclear deal with Iran even though Tehran has been trying to assassinate former Trump administration officials. 

Tennesseans In Need of Assistance

Tennesseans needing assistance in Israel should first contact the U.S. Embassy in Israel. Once you have completed the crisis intake form, and enrolled in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program, please call or email my office.