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Sen. Jeff Merkley of Oregon on Thursday introduced the first Senate resolution explicitly calling on the United States to formally recognize a Palestinian state, marking a significant departure from longstanding American policy that has opposed unilateral recognition.
The resolution, backed by seven Democratic co-sponsors, calls for U.S. recognition of a demilitarized Palestinian state alongside a secure Israel, in accordance with international law and two-state solution principles.
"Recognition of a Palestinian state is not only a practical step the United States can take to help build a future where Palestinians and Israelis can live in freedom, dignity, and security, but it is the right thing to do," Merkley said in a statement. "America has a responsibility to lead, and the time to act is now."
The measure represents uncharted territory for the Senate, which has never before considered legislation directly urging Palestinian statehood recognition. Previous congressional action has generally opposed such moves, including a 2017 Senate resolution objecting to a UN Security Council resolution on Israeli settlements.
Joining Merkley as co-sponsors are Sens. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, Tim Kaine of Virginia, Bernie Sanders of Vermont, Peter Welch of Vermont, Tina Smith of Minnesota, Tammy Baldwin of Wisconsin and Mazie Hirono of Hawaii.
The resolution calls for an immediate ceasefire in the ongoing conflict, return of all hostages and increased humanitarian aid, followed by steps toward establishing two states. "The goal of a Palestinian state can't be put off any longer if we want the next generation to avoid suffering from the same insecurity and affliction," Merkley said.
In the House, no similar resolution calling for formal recognition has been introduced, though Rep. Al Green of Texas led a 2023 measure affirming Palestine's right to exist "at a future time to become a nation-state" without urging immediate U.S. recognition.
The co-sponsoring senators have previously supported related measures on Palestinian issues, including humanitarian aid for Gaza and arms sale restrictions to Israel, though none have successfully passed.
Sanders has led multiple efforts to block weapons sales to Israel, receiving support primarily from Democratic colleagues but failing to gain broader backing.
The resolution faces significant obstacles in a Republican-controlled Congress, where previous Democratic-led efforts on Palestinian issues have encountered strong opposition.
Historical voting patterns show Democratic senators typically supporting pro-Palestinian measures at rates of 70-80%, while Republican support remains below 10%.
U.S. policy has historically favored negotiated outcomes through diplomatic processes like the Oslo Accords rather than unilateral recognition. The Biden administration has maintained this position while expressing support for an eventual two-state solution.
The timing comes amid continued violence in Gaza and ongoing diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire and hostage release deal between Israel and Hamas.
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