US House to Vote on Bill Criminalizing Boycotts of “Israel”

By Staff, Agencies

The US House of Representatives is preparing to vote on a highly controversial bill that would impose hefty fines and prison sentences on Americans who participate in boycotts of “Israel” or its illegal settlements, especially those encouraged by international bodies like the UN or the EU.

Set for a vote on Monday, the proposed anti-boycott legislation—backed by pro-“Israel” lawmakers Mike Lawler and Josh Gottheimer—seeks to expand existing US laws by criminalizing political actions taken by American citizens in support of non-violent pressure campaigns, such as the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions [BDS] movement.

If passed, the law would authorize penalties of up to $1 million in fines or prison terms of up to 20 years for engaging in or supporting such boycotts. Civil rights organizations have sharply condemned the bill, warning that it threatens constitutionally protected freedoms of expression and political dissent.

Critics argue that the legislation is part of a broader effort by the US government to silence opposition to “Israel’s” ongoing genocide in Gaza, its apartheid policies and the continued expansion of settlements deemed illegal under international law—all under the pretense of combating anti-Semitism.

Originally introduced in 2024, the bill passed the Republican-controlled House with broad bipartisan backing, but was blocked by Senate Democrats. With Republicans now in control of both chambers, the bill stands a strong chance of becoming law.

The American Israel Public Affairs Committee [AIPAC], the most influential “Israeli” lobby in the US, has declared full support for the legislation. The Foundation for Defense of Democracies [FDD] Action has also endorsed the measure and continues to back congressional efforts to counter anti-“Israeli” boycotts.

The majority of current boycott efforts are aimed at pressuring the “Israeli” entity to halt its genocidal war on Gaza, which has resulted in the deaths of over 52,500 Palestinians and left more than 118,000 injured—most of them women and children.

“Israel” has also imposed a full blockade on the Gaza Strip for over two months, denying entry of humanitarian aid and pushing its 2.3 million residents toward famine, according to UN agencies.