Hakeem Jeffries Calls for Dramatic Middle East Policy Change

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries called for "dramatic change" in the Middle East on November 12, advocating for a two-state solution that ensures a secure Israel exists alongside an independent Palestinian state. Speaking during a weekly press conference, Jeffries specifically called for changes in Gaza and the West Bank.

Jeffries also targeted the Memorandum of Understanding that provides $3.8 billion in annual U.S. military aid to Israel, which is set to expire in September 2028. These remarks follow sweeping Democratic victories in the midterm elections, which will grant the party control of both houses of Congress starting January 3. This shift in power is expected to increase legislative scrutiny of U.S. military aid to Israel and the conflict with Iran, particularly as civilian casualties in Gaza and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's ties to Republicans have strained bipartisan support.

While Democrats will control the legislative agenda and the drafting of bills in 2027, President Donald Trump retains veto power over any passed measures. Overriding a presidential veto would require a two-thirds majority in both chambers of Congress.