Rep. Ro Khanna has become the first member of Congress to sign an anti-AIPAC peace pledge, aligning himself with a growing movement that seeks to reduce the influence of pro-Israel lobbying groups on U.S. foreign policy and promote diplomatic approaches to conflicts in the Middle East.
The announcement was highlighted by Democracy Now! during its June 18 news headlines segment, which reported that Khanna was the first U.S. lawmaker to endorse the pledge.
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Khanna, who represents California’s Silicon Valley-based congressional district, has long positioned himself as a leading progressive voice on foreign policy. Over the years, he has advocated for congressional oversight of military interventions, opposed what he describes as “forever wars,” and supported diplomatic engagement as a primary tool for resolving international disputes.
The move comes amid heightened debate in Washington over U.S. policy toward Israel, Gaza, and the broader Middle East. Progressive lawmakers have increasingly questioned the role of major lobbying organizations in shaping U.S. foreign policy and have called for greater emphasis on diplomacy, human rights, and congressional authority over military action.
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Khanna has previously backed efforts to limit unauthorized military involvement abroad and has repeatedly argued that Congress should play a larger role in decisions related to war and national security. He has also supported initiatives aimed at advancing diplomatic solutions in international conflicts.
The pledge is expected to resonate with segments of the Democratic Party that have become increasingly critical of traditional U.S. approaches to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Supporters view it as a statement in favor of peace-oriented policymaking, while critics may see it as a challenge to longstanding political alliances in Washington.
Khanna’s decision marks a notable moment in the evolving debate over foreign policy within Congress, particularly as lawmakers face growing pressure from activists and constituents seeking a reassessment of U.S. engagement in the Middle East.