House Democrats' pro-Israel wing gains power on panel overseeing foreign policy

A trio of vocally pro-Israel House Democrats were given powerful posts on the House Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday, with one taking the reins of the subcommittee that oversees U.S.-Middle East policy. Why it matters: It is a substantial win for the party's pro-Israel wing despite growing pro-Palestinian sentiment among the party's grassroots. And it could have global ramifications, with Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.) indicating that, if he becomes chair of the Middle East and North Africa subcommittee next year, he will use the position to shore up U.S. support for Israel. "If Democrats take control of the House, I'll be in a position to help steer U.S. policy on Israel and the Middle East," he told Axios. Driving the news: In addition to Moskowitz leading Democrats on the MENA subcommittee, pro-Israel Reps. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.) and Wesley Bell (D-Mo.) were appointed to the Foreign Affairs Committee on Tuesday. Rep. Mark Pocan (D-Wisc.), a pro-Palestinian progressive and prolific critic of the pro-Israel group AIPAC, was also appointed to the panel. Moskowitz, Wasserman Schultz and Bell all dispatched left-wing primary challengers this election cycle who went after their support of Israel. What they're saying: Rep. Greg Meeks (D-N.Y.), the ranking member of the Foreign Affairs Committee, said the appointees' "experience, commitment, and expertise will strengthen our work and help guide the committee as it addresses urgent challenges in national security and diplomacy." "I look forward to working closely with all of our members during this turbulent time when Congressional oversight is most needed," added Meeks, who is also a vocal supporter of Israel.

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