The American Israeli Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) is a lobbying group that advocates for pro-Israeli policies to congress and the executive branch of the US government. Founded by a former journalist and Zionist, Isiah Kenan in 1951, it was established in an attempt to strengthen the relationship between Israel and the US and has grown significantly since its inception, now acting as one of the most powerful lobbying group within the United States.
Political influence and Financial Contributions
AIPAC are known for their significant influence within US politics, particularly regarding US-Israel relations. Although they do not directly endorse candidates, they do encourage their members to support Pro-Israel candidates. Their strategy is rather diverse and involves extensive lobbying and political education campaigns among many other things.
The group supports many policies that aim to strengthen relations with Israel. Some key policies and initiatives they have backed include:
- Military aid to Israel:
- Iran sanctions
- US-Israel security Cooperation.
- Significant opposition to the Boycott, Divestment, Sanctions (BDS) movement.
Although AIPAC have no direct political influence, many would argue that their support and backing has allowed much of the policies and legislation that they stand for, come to rise.
AIPAC itself does not donate directly to political campaigns, however, its members and associated Political Action Committees (PACs) contribute significantly. Pro-Israel groups, including those aligned with AIPAC, have donated tens of millions of dollars to federal candidates over the years. For example, in the 2020 election cycle, pro-Israel groups contributed over $30 million to candidates from both parties.
Since 2010, the group has contributed well over $150 Million.
Key Policies and legislative backing
AIPAC has backed and supported countless pieces of policies and pieces of legislation, specifically those that are beneficial not only for the US but also for Israel. Here are a few:
Annual Defence Appropriations:
AIPAC consistently lobbies for full funding of U.S. security assistance to Israel. This includes $3.3 billion annually in Foreign Military Financing (FMF) and additional funds for missile defence systems like the Iron Dome, David's Sling, and the Arrow.
Comprehensive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Divestment Act of 2010:
This legislation imposed sanctions on Iran to curb its nuclear program. AIPAC played a key role in advocating for these sanctions.
Sanctioning Iran's Illicit Activities:
AIPAC has backed various bills imposing sanctions on Iran’s ballistic missile program and support for terrorism, including the Countering America’s Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (CAATSA).
Combating BDS Act of 2019:
This act allows state and local governments to divest from entities that boycott Israel. AIPAC has actively lobbied for this and similar legislation at both federal and state levels.
Countering Hezbollah’s Militant Activities:
AIPAC has supported various sanctions and legislative measures targeting Hezbollah’s financing and operations.
Contributions to US Senators and Politicians
In recent election cycles, pro-Israel groups have donated significant amounts to these and other senators, helping ensure their support for policies that align with AIPAC’s agenda. Here are some specific contributions:
- Chuck Schumer received over $500,000 from pro-Israel PACs and individuals in recent election cycles.
- Bob Menendez received over $400,000 from similar sources.
- Lindsey Graham received over $300,000 in pro-Israel donations.
A significant number of other Democratic and Republican Senators have also received such donations including Ben Cardin, Ted Cruz, and Marco Rubio.
All of these politicians have been strong advocates and allies of Israel, advocating for further support and assistance for the nation.
Allegations of Mossad Infiltration
There have been various allegations and theories over the years regarding Mossad's (Israel's national intelligence agency) infiltration or influence in the United States, often tied to lobbying groups like AIPAC. However, these allegations are controversial and often lack concrete evidence. Here are some notable instances and claims:
The case of Jonathon Pollard:
Jonathan Pollard, a former U.S. Navy intelligence analyst, was arrested in 1985 for spying for Israel. Although Pollard's espionage was not directly tied to AIPAC, his case has often been cited in discussions about Israeli intelligence operations in the U.S. Pollard provided classified information to Israel, which led to significant diplomatic tensions between the U.S. and Israel.
1987 AIPAC Espionage Investigation:
In the late 1980s, AIPAC came under scrutiny when the FBI investigated allegations that AIPAC staff had passed classified information to Israel. The investigation, however, did not result in any charges.
The 2005 Rosen-Weissman Case:
Steve Rosen and Keith Weissman, two former AIPAC officials, were indicted in 2005 for allegedly conspiring to pass classified information to Israel. The charges were eventually dropped in 2009, but the case highlighted concerns about the potential for intelligence-related activities under the guise of lobbying.