The House of Representatives approved a bill on Thursday that would restrict federal funding to American universities that boycott Israel or Israeli academic institutions, including those operating in the occupied West Bank. The measure passed 237-169, with 33 Democrats voting alongside the Republican majority, while two Republicans opposed it. The legislation now requires Senate approval and presidential signature to become law.
Under the bill’s terms, universities would lose federal funding if they boycott entities licensed, regulated, or organized under Israeli law. The measure would require universities to certify annually that they permit cooperation with Israeli academic institutions. Critics contend that the funding restrictions would make it difficult for many schools to operate and distribute student financial aid. Civil rights organizations argue the requirement to maintain relationships with Israeli universities, including those in illegal West Bank settlements, effectively compels institutional alignment rather than merely prohibiting boycotts.
Advocates opposing the bill contend it violates constitutional protections. The American-Arab Anti-Discrimination Committee and the Council on American-Islamic Relations have characterized the legislation as suppressing First Amendment-protected activity, noting that courts have recognized boycotts as constitutionally protected conduct. Supporters counter that the measure regulates commercial conduct rather than restricting speech, with House Education Committee leadership arguing that universities should not use federal funds to discriminate against Israeli entities.
The bill reflects ongoing legislative efforts to restrict the Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions movement, which seeks to pressure Israel economically regarding Palestinian issues. Public opinion polling from July indicated that 62 percent of Americans hold an unfavorable view of the Israeli government, though pro-Israel sentiment remains robust in Congress. The two Republicans voting against the bill—Thomas Massie and Warren Davidson—have previously criticized Washington’s Middle East policies.
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