Trump Reverses Israel Boycott Pledge Aid Policy

The Trump administration initially announced that U.S. states and cities would be ineligible for nearly $1.9 billion in federal disaster preparedness funding if they engaged in boycotts of Israeli companies, tying aid to anti-BDS policies. The policy also required major cities to comply to access over $550 million in terrorism prevention funds, with New York City at risk of losing $92 million if noncompliant. The administration described the move as combating antisemitism, citing criticism of Israel by the BDS movement. The requirement was seen as largely symbolic since at least 34 states already have anti-BDS laws or policies. Amid controversy and heightened scrutiny, the administration reversed its stance, with the Department of Homeland Security removing the boycott language and clarifying FEMA grants would be governed by existing law and policy.