The US House of Representatives has passed a bill, by a 237-169 vote, that would penalise American universities for boycotting Israel or its academic institutions, including those in the occupied West Bank, by withholding federal funds. Critics argue the measure infringes on Americans' freedom of speech, citing First Amendment concerns. The bill still requires adoption by the Senate and President Trump's signature to become law. Supporters contend the measure aims to regulate commercial conduct, not speech.