Portrait of Elise Stefanik
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Elise Stefanik on Palestine

Pro-Israel hardliner (strong)

TL;DR

Elise Stefanik firmly supports Israel's right to control all West Bank territory while opposing Palestinian self-determination and UNRWA funding.

Key Points

  • Confirmed during a January 2025 Senate hearing that she believes Israel has a 'biblical right to the entire West Bank.'

  • Pledged to oppose all U.S. funding to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) and seek to dismantle it.

  • Called for the rescinding of a federally funded scholarship from a Harvard student for supporting a letter criticizing Israel after the October 7, 2023, attack.

Summary

Elise Stefanik, during her confirmation hearing for United States ambassador to the United Nations, affirmed a strong pro-Israel stance that includes support for the Israeli claim to the entire West Bank, an opinion she confirmed was held by her. This position contrasts with the long-standing U.S. policy supporting a two-state solution and aligns her with far-right Israeli political figures. When directly questioned about Palestinian self-determination, she avoided a direct affirmation, instead stating that the Palestinian people deserve human rights and pivoting to the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas.

Her stated approach to international bodies signals a continuation of the former administration's agenda, which includes auditing UN funding and specifically opposing any U.S. funds going to the UN Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA), calling it a 'pro-Hamas terrorist group.' Furthermore, she has taken action against pro-Palestinian advocacy, calling for the revocation of a federally funded scholarship from a student whose group had condemned Israel’s actions following the October 7 attacks. Her narrative frames the conflict as a clear fight between good and evil, emphasizing the eradication of Hamas.

Frequently Asked Questions

Elise Stefanik holds a strong pro-Israel position and is an outspoken opponent of groups critical of Israel. She has explicitly supported the Israeli claim to the entire West Bank during her UN ambassador confirmation hearing.

Based on available information concerning her recent statements as a nominee for UN ambassador, her position appears consistent with a hardline, unwavering commitment to supporting Israel's maximalist security and territorial positions.

When asked directly about the right to self-determination for Palestinians, Elise Stefanik avoided a clear answer, instead stating that the Palestinian people deserve human rights and then pivoting to call for the release of Israeli hostages.