At a moment of real uncertainty in the region, Congress supports the Trump Administration pursuing a clear—and often overlooked—opportunity

Even as all eyes are on the war with Iran and progress in Gaza remains uncertain, Congress has taken several steps in recent weeks to show strong support for long-term investments in resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. 

Although changes to U.S. foreign assistance last year disrupted funding for many Israeli–Palestinian peacebuilding programs, attention in Washington has turned to resuming those investments. That primarily includes  the Nita M. Lowey Middle East Partnership for Peace Act (MEPPA), which is now ready to be reactivated.

While many MEPPA grants ended, one initiative—a program training and connecting Israeli and Palestinian trauma surgeons—has continued, with grant management transitioned to the U.S. Department of State. It’s a powerful example of how investments in peacebuilding can endure and adapt, even under pressure.

Now, we are seeing meaningful progress toward reinvigorating the program.

Just weeks ago, Congress took an important step by appropriating $37.5 million for MEPPA in the current fiscal year, FY26—an essential investment in rebuilding and expanding this work. Just as importantly, bipartisan support remains strong to fully continue the program next year. Earlier this month, 99 members of the House of Representatives—representing over one-fifth of the chamber— came together to support full funding for MEPPA at $50 million in FY27. The effort is led by Representatives Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-FL) and Ann Wagner (R-MO). 

With their leadership, MEPPA remains the United States’ flagship bipartisan program for Israeli–Palestinian peacebuilding, supporting people-to-people initiatives that build trust, shift narratives, and create the societal foundations that make diplomacy sustainable. 

Maintaining such funding is incredibly popular with the American public. An ALLMEP poll last year found that 72% of Americans (and 74% of MAGA voters) wanted to continue funding for peacebuilding – underscoring broad public backing for diplomatic and civil society approaches to peace.

It also aligns directly with the Administration’s broader peace framework, particularly its focus on interfaith engagement, changing the mindsets and narratives that drive conflict, and demonstrating the tangible benefits of peace.

With funding, bipartisan backing, and a proven model in place, the opportunity is clear: this is the moment to fully reactivate and scale this work as part of the next phase of diplomacy. At a time of regional escalation—including tensions involving Iran—this work is not peripheral; it is essential.