A far-right think tank has developed a blueprint to dismantle pro-Palestine activism in the United States. The Heritage Foundation, known for shaping conservative policies, introduced “Project Esther” as a strategy to silence Palestinian solidarity. The plan calls for using counterterrorism laws, immigration policies, and hate speech regulations to criminalize activism.
Since Donald Trump’s 2024 presidential victory, lawmakers have introduced at least four bills that align with Project Esther’s goals. These bills target student organizations, advocacy groups, and progressive politicians who speak out against Israel’s actions in Palestine. The legislation could have a chilling effect on free speech and grassroots movements across the country.
Framing Activism as Terrorism
Project Esther labels pro-Palestine activists as part of “a global Hamas support network.” This false narrative positions student groups and advocacy organizations as threats to national security. The Heritage Foundation’s plan outlines how federal and state laws could be used to surveil and punish activists.
Among the legal tools suggested are:
- The Foreign Agents Registration Act (FARA), which could require activists to register as foreign agents.
- The Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO), a law meant to prosecute organized crime.
- Counterterrorism laws, which could lead to increased surveillance and criminal charges.
- Hate speech laws, potentially restricting criticism of Israel under the guise of combating antisemitism.
-Immigration laws, which could be used to deport activists with international ties.
Targeting Advocacy Groups and Progressive Politicians
Project Esther singles out several key organizations and individuals. Among its top targets are:
- Jewish Voice for Peace, a Jewish-led group opposing Israeli policies.
- Students for Justice in Palestine (SJP), a student movement advocating for Palestinian rights.
- Samidoun, an advocacy group supporting Palestinian prisoners held by Israel.
The plan also identifies progressive politicians, including Representative Rashida Tlaib, as potential threats. This marks an escalation in efforts to silence pro-Palestine voices in the U.S. government.
Political Influence and Legislative Action
Since Project Esther’s release, several legislative proposals have surfaced in Congress. These bills aim to restrict student organizing, limit financial support for pro-Palestine causes, and punish institutions that allow activism. Some states are already adopting similar measures at the local level.
On January 23, the U.S. Department of Education dismantled its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Project Esther explicitly targets DEI programs, claiming they promote anti-Israel sentiment. The move suggests that conservative think tanks are successfully influencing federal policy.
The Bigger Picture
Project Esther is part of a broader effort to reshape U.S. policy on Israel-Palestine. It follows the Heritage Foundation’s Project 2025, which promotes Christian nationalist policies. Both initiatives reflect a far-right agenda that seeks to control public discourse and limit political opposition.
If fully implemented, Project Esther could redefine how activism is treated under U.S. law. Pro-Palestine advocacy could become criminalized, setting a dangerous precedent for political dissent. The coming months will reveal how far these policies will go—and whether resistance can counter them.
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