Washington:US House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries emphasized the need for "dramatic changes" in the Middle East, focusing on areas such as the occupied West Bank, the Gaza Strip, and US defense cooperation with Israel.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Jeffries refrained from explicitly supporting a proposal to eliminate Israel-related elements from the upcoming National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This proposal, put forth by Sen. Chris Van Hollen, aims to remove provisions from the defense bill that would enhance US defense and intelligence ties with Israel.

During a news conference, Jeffries mentioned, "Haven't had a conversation with Sen. Van Hollen, but what I have said is that things have to dramatically change over in the Middle East." He expressed strong support for the West Bank Violence Protection Act and underscored the need for significant changes in Gaza and the memorandum of understanding as it approaches its conclusion.

Jeffries further stated that Democrats are committed to working as a caucus towards achieving a "just and lasting peace" for both Israelis and Palestinians. He asserted, "The status quo is unacceptable, and we need dramatic change. And that looks like, as far as I'm concerned, making sure you have a safe and secure Israel, living side by side as a Jewish and democratic state with an independent Palestinian state that provides dignity and self-determination for the Palestinian people."

These comments followed Van Hollen's initiative, supported by 11 Senate colleagues, urging congressional leadership to exclude provisions from the NDAA that mandate increased defense and intelligence cooperation with Israel.