Accountability for Withholding Aid and Relief Essentials Act of 2026; AWARE Act of 2026
Summary
The AWARE Act of 2026 expresses the sense of Congress regarding the Netanyahu administration's conduct in Gaza and aims to impose sanctions on governments obstructing humanitarian assistance. It outlines findings related to restrictions on aid, malnutrition, and the role of various entities. The bill includes provisions for identifying covered persons obstructing aid, imposing diplomatic and financial sanctions, and allowing waivers for national security interests.
Expected Effects
The AWARE Act could lead to sanctions on individuals and entities found to be obstructing humanitarian aid to Gaza. This may result in increased pressure on the Israeli government to facilitate aid delivery. The act also establishes a framework for congressional oversight and potential termination of sanctions.
Potential Benefits
- Could improve humanitarian access to Gaza, reducing suffering and malnutrition.
- May hold individuals accountable for obstructing aid, promoting adherence to international law.
- Could strengthen the US's international standing by demonstrating a commitment to humanitarian principles.
- Provides a framework for congressional oversight, ensuring accountability in the implementation of sanctions.
- Could incentivize other countries to impose similar sanctions, amplifying the impact.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could strain relations between the US and Israel, potentially impacting national security interests.
- Sanctions may have unintended consequences, harming innocent civilians or destabilizing the region.
- The waiver provision could be used to circumvent the intent of the act, weakening its effectiveness.
- Identifying covered persons and gathering evidence could be challenging and time-consuming.
- The act's sunset provision limits its long-term impact.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The bill's focus on foreign policy and sanctions falls under the purview of the President and Congress, as outlined in Article I, Section 8 (powers of Congress) and Article II, Section 2 (powers of the President). The bill's provisions for congressional oversight align with the principle of checks and balances. However, the bill's potential impact on international relations and national security requires careful consideration to ensure it aligns with constitutional principles.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).