Bill To Counter Israel Boycott Movement Passes Senate

"The Republican-controlled Senate on Tuesday passed legislation that would allow state and local governments to bar contractors from advocating for sanctions and a boycott of Israel.

The measure, part of a broader bill setting U.S. policy in the Middle East, is aimed at discouraging the so-called BDS movement that aims to end Israel's occupation of the Palestinian territories through boycotts, divestment and sanctions.

The bill, which the Senate passed on a 77-23 vote, is unlikely to succeed in the House, where the majority Democratic caucus is split between supporters of Israel and a newly empowered progressive wing critical of the nation's treatment of the Palestinians, aides said..."