Overview

• The nonbinding measure, led by Sen. Jeff Merkley, urges the president to recognize a demilitarized Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel.
• The resolution couples recognition with calls for an immediate ceasefire, the return of all hostages, expanded humanitarian aid to Gaza, and for Hamas to end terrorism.
• Co-sponsors are Sens. Chris Van Hollen, Tim Kaine, Peter Welch, Tina Smith, Tammy Baldwin, Mazie Hirono and Bernie Sanders.
• Passage is unlikely in the Republican-controlled Senate, with President Trump opposing recognition as close allies prepare their own moves at the U.N.
• A U.N. Commission of Inquiry this week said Israel has committed genocide in Gaza, a conclusion echoed by Sen. Bernie Sanders and rejected by Israel, as Gaza’s Health Ministry reports more than 65,000 Palestinians killed.