House Democrats remain incensed following an unprecedented rebuke from Israel’s ambassador to the U.S., Michael Herzog, which accused lawmakers of misrepresenting Israeli policy, aiding Hamas, and improperly attempting to influence President Joe Biden. This incident highlights the escalating tensions between the Israeli government and many influential Democrats, particularly as Israel intensifies its U.S.-backed military campaign in Gaza amidst worsening conditions for the 2.3 million Palestinians there.
The ambassador’s letter, described by one Democratic staffer as “a stunning document,” was sent on May 8 in response to an earlier letter from House Democrats to Biden. This May 3 letter, signed by 88 Democrats led by Reps. Jason Crow (D-Colo.) and Chris Deluzio (D-Pa.), argued that Israel is violating a U.S. law prohibiting the sending of weapons to countries obstructing American aid. The Democrats’ letter followed increasing criticism of Israel’s actions in Gaza and was released just before the Biden administration denied the claims of legal violations.
Herzog’s letter criticized U.S. lawmakers for allegedly failing to conduct adequate due diligence and for attempting to influence U.S. policy based on “unsubstantiated claims.” The letter suggested that the House Democrats were bolstering Israel’s enemies and undermining the efforts to defeat Hamas.
The unprecedented nature of Herzog’s letter and its tone have sparked significant backlash among congressional staff. One Democratic aide pointed out that multiple parts of Herzog’s message were almost offensive, such as the assertion that Congress is overlooking the brutal Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7. “Never before have we received such a harsh letter from the Israeli government. But then again, never before have we been so critical of their actions,” said another aide. Herzog’s assertion that House Democrats were aiding Hamas and his reminder of the brutal Hamas-led attack on Israel on October 7 were particularly offensive to many.
Adding to the tension, the Israeli embassy reached out to multiple signatories of the May 3 letter for meetings or calls, indicating a concerted effort to push back against the congressional criticism. The Biden administration, despite issuing a report that found Israel was not violating U.S. law regarding humanitarian aid, expressed “deep concerns” about Israel’s actions that have significantly hindered the delivery of needed assistance to Palestinians.
Despite the administration’s claims of compliance with U.S. statutes, humanitarian groups and critics argue that Israeli policies continue to exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The conflict has already resulted in the deaths of around 35,000 Palestinians, according to local authorities, while the Hamas-led attack on October 7 killed nearly 1,200 Israelis.
Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), who mandated the Biden administration’s assessment of Israeli compliance with international law, criticized the administration’s findings as inadequate, especially given the severity of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. USAID chief Samantha Power and World Food Programme head Cindy McCain have both confirmed that famine is now underway in Gaza.
The situation remains volatile, with House Democrats and various advocacy groups continuing to press for accountability and a reevaluation of U.S. support for Israel’s military operations. Meanwhile, pro-Israel groups, such as Democratic Majority for Israel, are working to mitigate public criticism from Democrats and emphasize the “ironclad” U.S. support for Israel, as affirmed by national security adviser Jake Sullivan.
The release of Herzog’s letter and the subsequent fallout illustrate the growing rift between the Israeli government and its traditional allies in the U.S. Congress. As Israel’s military campaign in Gaza continues, the tension between advocating for humanitarian aid and supporting Israel’s security measures poses a significant challenge for U.S. lawmakers and the Biden administration.
