WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Joni Ernst (R-Iowa), a leading member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and co-chair of the Abraham Accords Caucus, has reinforced the legacy of the historic Abraham Accords by securing three major provisions in the Fiscal Year (FY) 2025 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). These measures aim to strengthen partnerships among Abraham Accords nations and counter the growing threat posed by Iran.
“In the face of increased Iranian aggression, it is essential we build upon the Abraham Accords and not let them unravel,” Senator Ernst stated. “The foundation President Trump established through these historic agreements is strong, and we must continue to equip our partners to confront the threats they face. When we stand with our allies, we make the world a safer place by confronting Tehran with its greatest fear: peace.”
Senator Ernst’s contributions to the NDAA emphasize bolstering regional security and technological cooperation among Abraham Accords nations, including:
- The AI ACCORD Act – Enhancing advanced technology networks across Abraham Accords partners to combat Iran’s and its proxies’ use of cyber and artificial intelligence tools.
- The LINK Act – Strengthening strategic, operational, and tactical collaboration by connecting senior commanders from Middle Eastern armed forces to improve regional security and readiness.
- The STARS Act – Expanding the Abraham Accords into space by boosting satellite security coordination among Middle Eastern partners.
With the NDAA for FY2025 now passed by both the Senate and the House, it is headed to the president’s desk for final approval.
Ernst’s Leadership in the Middle East
Senator Ernst’s recent legislative successes build on her previous initiatives, including the DEFEND Act and MARITIME Act, which aimed to counter Iran’s aggression on land and at sea.
Following the October 7, 2023, Hamas attacks on Israel—widely recognized as being backed by Iran—Ernst traveled to Israel just days after the assault to show unwavering support for the U.S. ally. She has since made three additional visits to the region to push for the return of hostages, affirm U.S. support for Israel, and hold the Biden administration accountable for its commitments to Israel.
Building on Trump’s Abraham Accords Legacy
The Abraham Accords, brokered by President Trump in 2020, normalized relations between Israel and several Arab nations, including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain. Senator Ernst’s provisions seek to expand on this foundation, reinforcing regional security through collaboration and innovation.
“Peace in the Middle East is Tehran’s greatest fear,” Ernst emphasized. “By strengthening our partnerships through the Abraham Accords, we are sending a clear message that the United States stands resolutely with its allies.”
As the NDAA moves closer to becoming law, Senator Ernst’s efforts demonstrate a bipartisan commitment to advancing the principles of the Abraham Accords and addressing shared threats in the region.