AWARE Act of 2026

Key Points

• Congress is considering a new law to punish foreign government officials who stop food, water, and medicine from reaching civilians. The bill specifically points to current restrictions on aid entering Gaza that have led to widespread hunger and medical crises for over 2 million people.
• The policy would require the President to create a list of specific leaders, military officers, and government workers who are found to be blocking or slowing down aid. These individuals would be banned from entering the United States, and any visas they currently hold would be canceled immediately.
• Any property or money these officials have in the United States would be frozen. This means they would not be able to use their bank accounts or sell property located in the U.S. as long as they are on the restricted list.
• The bill targets high-ranking officials, including heads of state, cabinet members, and military officers with the rank of lieutenant colonel or higher. It also covers private companies or foundations that help these officials block aid from reaching people in need.
• While the President can pause these punishments for national security reasons, Congress would have the power to review and potentially block those pauses. This ensures that the government stays focused on making sure humanitarian groups can safely deliver essentials like infant formula and fuel.

Impact Analysis

Govbase has not yet run an impact analysis on this legislation.