1. United States
2. Colo.
3. Letter

I am writing to urge you to oppose HR8445, a bill that proposes using U.S. taxpayer dollars to reward service in a foreign military, specifically the Israeli Defense Forces (IDF). This legislation is not only diplomatically inappropriate, but it also endangers American values of sovereignty and justice. Providing financial rewards for U.S. citizens who serve in a foreign military undermines our principles and sets a dangerous precedent. At a time when we have pressing needs within our own country, we should not be diverting funds to support Americans enlisting in the military operations of another nation, particularly one that has been documented committing severe human rights abuses. Encouraging Americans to serve in the IDF, especially while it conducts forced starvation, ethnic cleansing, and acts of genocide against the people of Gaza, is both morally unacceptable and deeply troubling. This policy choice not only aligns us with actions that defy the principles of human rights but also directly jeopardizes American interests and security. Rather than incentivizing service in a foreign military engaged in violent oppression, we should be investing our resources in efforts that promote peace, justice, and security. I urge you to oppose HR8445 any similar legislation, and to instead advocate for policies that contribute to a just and lasting peace for all Palestinians and Israelis.