Senator Mike Crapo isn’t the typical bought out AIPAC politician, Mike has gone above and beyond to support Israel and has even repressed U.S. citizens critical of Israel’s bombardments to ensure his investment with the lobby group. Three months into Israel’s genocide of Gazans, Culprit Crapo co-sponspored the Strengthen Economic Ties with Israel Resolution in December 2023. He justified this stance by stating, “The United States maintains a strong economic partnership with Israel. As Israel continues to defend itself against barbaric Hamas terrorists, the Senate unanimously affirms that trade and investment between our countries is vital for the continued success of our economic ties. I firmly stand with Israel and will continue supporting its right to defend itself against those wishing to cause it harm.” So it comes to no surprise that Culprit Crapo signed onto the Strengthening of Israel-U.S. Alliance Act, which provides Israel with $3.8 billion in unconditional military aid.
Crapo has also been a vocal critic of the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) movement, particularly on college campuses, arguing that it is used “to economically harm and delegitimize the state of Israel.” His stance reflects a broader agenda to suppress any efforts that challenge Israel’s policies or seek to hold it accountable for its actions in the occupied Palestinian territories.
The implications of Crapo’s legislative support for Israel have been severe for Palestinians. As of August 2024, the ongoing genocide in Gaza has resulted in nearly 40,000 civilian deaths, including 16,500 children, with projections suggesting the toll could reach 180,000. The West Bank continues to experience land grabs from Israeli settlers resulting in the displacement of Palestinian families. Despite the devastating humanitarian crisis, Crapo’s commitment to Israel remains unwavering, influenced by the financial backing from AIPAC, $327,673. His actions in Congress contribute to the ongoing cycle of violence and destruction in the region.
Related Links
Senate Passes Resolution to Strengthen Economic Ties with Israel with Crapo Support, Mike Crapo Gov., December 2023
Crapo, Risch, Cassidy Sound Alarm on Resurgence of BDS Movement Threatening Israel’s Right to Exist, Mike Crapo Gov., December 2023
Crapo, Colleagues Introduce Resolution Condemning Any Action by Biden Admin to Withhold Weapons for Israel, Mike Crapo Gov., May 2024
Crapo Sponsors Resolution in Defense of Israel, Mike Crapo Gov., March 2024
Crapo Joins Effort to Counter Hate Against Israel, Mike Crapo Gov., May 2024
Gaza infrastructure damages estimated at $18.5bn in UN-World Bank report, Al Jazeera News, April 2024
