In a highly contentious move, the United States House of Representatives has passed a Republican plan that aims to provide $14.5bn in military aid for Israel. This decision has ignited a fierce partisan clash over the typically bipartisan issue of supporting the staunch US ally. The plan, which includes funding cuts to the Internal Revenue Service, was approved on Thursday by a vote of 226 to 196, largely along party lines.
This bill signifies the first major legislative action under the leadership of new Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson, who recently took over after Kevin McCarthy was removed by the hard-right faction of the party. The comprehensive package encompasses $4bn to replenish Israel’s Iron Dome and David’s Sling missile defense systems, as well as military equipment transferred from US stocks.
Johnson wasted no time in urging the Senate and White House to swiftly approve the bill, emphasizing the importance of seizing this moment. However, despite its passage in the House, the bill faces significant obstacles in becoming law. This is primarily due to the opposition from US President Joe Biden and his fellow Democrats in the Senate, who have signaled their disapproval due to the inclusion of spending cuts and the absence of aid for Ukraine.
To become law, the bill must navigate the Senate, where the Democrats hold a majority, and receive Biden’s signature. The White House has voiced concerns about the bill, stating that it “would have devastating implications for our safety and alliances in the years ahead.” In response, Biden has proposed a $106bn emergency spending package that includes funding for Israel, Taiwan, and Ukraine.
While the majority of Republicans still strongly support providing aid to Ukraine, a vocal minority within the party questions the necessity of continued financial assistance to Kyiv in the face of significant budget deficits. House Democrat Rosa DeLauro criticized Republicans for delaying aid to US allies through their bill, arguing that the fortunes of Israel and Ukraine are intertwined.
It is worth noting that the United States has been the largest provider of military assistance to Israel since World War II, with aid totaling over $124bn. Under a 10-year plan initiated in 2016, Israel already receives $3.8bn per year in military assistance.
In conclusion, the passage of the Republican bill in the House sets the stage for a partisan clash over military aid to Israel. While Republicans are pushing for swift approval, the bill faces an uphill battle in the Senate due to opposition from President Biden and Democrats, who highlight the bill’s spending cuts and lack of aid for Ukraine. The outcome of this battle will determine the future of US support for its staunch ally and the ongoing aid to Ukraine.
