Hawkish Senate Republicans erupt over reported Iran deal terms

Mamdani bows out of the Bibi backlash

This briefing covers congressional opposition to Israeli arms sales, shifting Middle East diplomatic ties, Houthi-Saudi escalation, and upcoming political events influencing U.S. policy and international relations.

Mamdani says he won’t protest Netanyahu — and doesn’t urge New Yorkers to, either

New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani told reporters on Wednesday that he does not intend to participate in any demonstrations against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s appearance at the U.N. General Assembly next week — and maintained he did not endorse public agitation against the Jewish state’s premier, an apparent ratcheting-down of his remarks from... <a href="">Read More</a>

Democrats push back on White House’s planned $2.8 billion sale of bombs to Israel

Congressional Democrats are taking steps to attempt to halt a planned $2.8 billion sale of heavy bombs to Israel, which is reportedly set to be financed with U.S. foreign military funding. Rep. Greg Meeks (D-NY), the ranking member of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, announced he is placing a procedural hold on the sale, citing concerns that the weapons would be used in violation of U.S. and international law. “I remain firmly committed to Israel’s security and its ability to defend itself against serious regional threats,” Meeks said in a statement. “But the Trump administration’s proposed sale of 40,000 2,000-pound bombs,... <a href="">Read More</a>

Deep-dish dog whistle

Today's Daily Kickoff covers Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson's campaign rhetoric, Vice President JD Vance's views on U.S.-Israel policy, Houthi threats, and critical legislative updates from Capitol Hill.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson targets top Jewish Democratic donor amid rocky road to reelection

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson is facing a long list of challengers in his reelection campaign next year — not to mention dismal job approval ratings and paltry fundraising. He kicked off his bid for a second term at an event on Sunday, however, directly targeting AIPAC as well as a Jewish Democratic donor who has... <a href="">Read More</a>