“This boycott is a shameful barrier to better relations between Israel and its neighbors. It is another symbol of the Arab League’s refusal to recognize Israel’s existence, and is a holdover from days when some of these same nations actively sought Israel’s destruction,” said Berkley. “Though the United States Trade Representative reports each year on the boycott, I believe that it could be improved through additional requirements. Improving reporting can enhance efforts to end all trade boycotts of Israel and allow for better measurement of the progress toward ending such boycotts.”

 “Arab states must act now to end their boycott of Israel, and, instead, recognize that nation’s right to exist as a Jewish, democratic state. The U.S. should improve its reporting on this boycott, so that those who actively participate in and enforce it cannot shirk accountability,” said Rep. Ros-Lehtinen, Foreign Affairs Committee Ranking Member. 

“It is unacceptable that governments who receive support from the United States continue a boycott against our greatest ally in the Middle East - Israel. The United States government can no longer stand idly by while Israel’s neighbors threaten their peace and safety,” said Rep. Weiner.

“As an ally to Israel, we must do what we can to promote the nation’s recognition in the world community.  Through this bill, we can further monitor the unnecessary trade barriers that the Arab League continues to hold against Israel, and hopefully work to eliminate these barriers all together,” said Rep. Myrick.

In order to enhance collection of information on Arab boycotts of Israel, the legislation mandates specific reporting requirements for the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR). The USTR’s reports must include the following information:

•           A list of all countries that participate in the trade boycott of Israel.

•           Whether those countries have attended any Arab League boycott meetings.

•           Whether those countries have laws or a government office enforcing the boycott.

•           Whether a country’s boycott practices have had an impact on the U.S. or U.S. business operations in Israel.