Search Results for keywords:"foreign policy"

The President has decided to extend the national emergency related to the situation in the West Bank for another year, beyond February 1, 2025. This emergency was first declared in early 2024 due to concerns over increased violence, forced displacements, and the destruction of property, which threaten peace and security in the region. These actions negatively impact U.S. foreign policy goals, including the two-state solution, and pose a risk to the security and stability of the broader Middle East. The notice has been sent to Congress and will be published in the Federal Register.

The Department of Defense (DoD) has published an arms sales notification regarding the sale of 28-meter patrol craft production kits to the Government of Egypt. This proposed sale, valued at $129 million, aims to support U.S. foreign policy and enhance Egypt's defense capabilities by improving its security operations. The sale includes kits with boats, infrared systems, and supporting services, and it will not affect the military balance in the region. Swiftships, located in Morgan City, LA, will be the primary contractor for this sale.

The national security memorandum, issued by the Executive Office of the President, focuses on advancing the human rights of LGBTQI+ individuals worldwide. It directs U.S. agencies involved in foreign operations to promote and protect the rights of LGBTQI+ persons through diplomacy and foreign aid. The memorandum outlines specific actions such as combating criminalization, protecting LGBTQI+ refugees, and enhancing international coalitions. It also requires agencies to review and report on their progress in implementing these initiatives and rescinds inconsistent policies.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has revised the Export Administration Regulations by adding 13 entities to the Entity List, which includes organizations acting against the national security interests of the U.S., from countries like Burma, China, and Pakistan. This amendment primarily targets entities tied to military modernization and human rights abuses. As a consequence, these entities now have stricter requirements for licenses on exports and transfers. Additionally, the rule corrects minor errors and offers transitional provisions for items already in transit.

The Department of Defense has announced an arms sale to Egypt, involving light tactical vehicle chassis and related equipment, worth an estimated $200 million. This sale aims to enhance Egypt's military capability, supporting U.S. foreign policy and national security by strengthening a key ally in the Middle East. The sale will not disrupt the military balance in the region and will include U.S. support for operations and maintenance training. The main contractor for this project is AM General, LLC, and there are no offset agreements involved.

The Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, has announced a determination regarding the foreign affairs functions of the United States. This includes efforts by government agencies to manage the entry and exit of people and goods across U.S. borders. The determination emphasizes the Department of State's central role in protecting U.S. citizens and managing foreign policy, as well as preventing threats related to border security, such as human trafficking, drug flow, and espionage. The action aligns with Executive Orders and other legal authorities focused on securing America's interests under the guidance of President Trump.

The Department of State has implemented sanctions against fourteen individuals under Executive Order 13936 related to Hong Kong normalization. These individuals have been identified as leaders or officials involved in creating or enforcing China's National Security Law in Hong Kong. As a result, their property and interests within U.S. jurisdiction are blocked, and Americans are generally prohibited from doing business with them. The determination was made effective as of December 7, 2020, and they have been added to the Specially Designated and Blocked Persons List.

The Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) has issued a new rule adding 16 entities to the Entity List because they are involved in activities against U.S. national security or foreign policy interests. These entities, mostly located in China and a couple in Singapore, are contributing to the development of advanced computing technology that could be used for military and surveillance purposes. As a result, they are now subject to additional licensing requirements for exporting, reexporting, or transferring items covered by U.S. regulations. This rule is effective from January 16, 2025, and was enacted without a prior proposal due to its relevance to national security.

The Department of Defense (DoD) has issued a notice about an arms sales proposal to Israel, which includes various 155mm artillery ammunition and related support services. The total cost of the sale is estimated to be $147.5 million, and the sale is considered crucial for U.S. national security interests. The sale is aimed at enhancing Israel's self-defense capabilities and does not require additional U.S. personnel in Israel. The items involved in the proposed sale are unclassified, and the transaction adheres to U.S. foreign policy goals.

The President has announced the continuation of a national emergency regarding Ukraine, which was initially declared on March 6, 2014, due to threats to U.S. national security and foreign policy. Various executive orders have expanded this emergency, addressing actions by the Russian Federation that undermine Ukraine's sovereignty and stability. These actions, including Russia's recognition of regions within Ukraine contrary to international agreements, are considered ongoing threats. Therefore, the emergency will remain in effect for another year beyond March 6, 2025.