Senator Tom Cotton Introduces Bill to Replace 'West Bank' with 'Judea and Samaria' in U.S. Documents

The proposed legislation argues for the use of biblical and historical terminology, drawing criticism over implications for Israeli-Palestinian relations.

Senator Tom Cotton (R-AR) introduced the RECOGNIZING Judea and Samaria Act, which mandates the use of 'Judea and Samaria' instead of 'West Bank' in all official U.S. government documents.
The bill mirrors similar legislation introduced in the House earlier this year by Republican Representatives Claudia Tenney, Randy Weber, and Anthony D’Esposito.
Supporters of the bill claim the terminology reflects historical and biblical ties of the Jewish people to the region, which they argue is central to Israel's heritage and sovereignty.
Critics argue the bill disregards international law, which recognizes the West Bank as occupied Palestinian territory, and could signal U.S. support for potential Israeli annexation of the area.
The move comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, with ongoing violence and debates over Israel's policies in the West Bank and Gaza.