Orthodox Union Applauds House Passage of Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act in Congress; Includes $400 million for Security Grants to Synagogues in U.S.

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Union of Orthodox Jewish Congregations of America (Orthodox Union), the nation’s largest Orthodox Jewish umbrella organization, applauds the passing of the long-awaited Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act by the House of Representatives. This welcome legislation provides $14.3 billion in military aid to Israel and an additional $400 million for the Nonprofit Security Grant Program (NSGP).

The NSGP funding provided in this bill will be instrumental in bolstering security measures for numerous nonprofit organizations, including synagogues, Jewish day schools, and other communal institutions, as we face the highest rate of antisemitism ever in the U.S. It is in this context that the Orthodox Union worked with key allies to ensure the emergency package includes the $400 million.

Additionally, this legislation offers invaluable military support to Israel in its war against Hamas, who pose a grave threat to the existence of the Jewish state and its people. With the involvement of Hezbollah and Iran in the region, this aid will serve to reinforce Israel’s defenses and save countless lives. The U.S. Senate is working to approve the House-passed bill and get it to President Biden’s desk for signature.

Nathan Diament, Executive Director of Public Policy at the Orthodox Union, said:  

“Congress continues to stand in solidarity with Israel as it confronts Hamas – and its backer, Iran – and defends the Jewish State’s inherent right to exist. We are very thankful for the House’s approval of military assistance to Israel, along with the funding allocated to the Nonprofit Security Grant Program. At this time of surging antisemitism, the NSGP security grants are essential to protect American Jewish communities.

We appreciate the leadership of Speaker Mike Johnson and Appropriations Chairman Tom Cole, and Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and Appropriations Ranking Democrat Rosa DeLauro. We also thank Representatives Elise Stefanik, Andrew Garbarino, Mike Lawler, Dave Joyce, Bill Pascrell, Kathy Manning, and Josh Gottheimer for working closely with us on this matter.”

Rabbi Moshe Hauer, Executive Vice President of the Orthodox Union, said:

“With the arrival of Passover, a Jewish holiday celebrating freedom, it is especially meaningful to see the American legislature come together to support Israel in its war against Hamas. True freedom comes when leaders display unapologetic moral clarity and safeguard the right of all citizens to freely practice their religion. We are grateful to see both of these goals prioritized today.”