Legislation proposing a substantial $17.6 billion in fresh military assistance for Israel, as it engages in conflict with Hamas, was introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives over the weekend. Speaker Mike Johnson conveyed in a letter to members that the funding bill may be put to a vote in the entire House sometime in the coming week. Previously, the Republican-controlled House had authorized $14.3 billion in new military aid to Israel, but with the condition that the funds be obtained by reclaiming a portion of the money allocated for the U.S. Internal Revenue Service. However, the Democratic-controlled Senate objected to this provision and is anticipated to present a legislative package that not only supports Israel but also provides additional military assistance to Ukraine in its confrontation with Russia. The Senate bill is also likely to include proposals to enhance security along the southern border of the United States with Mexico. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has initiated steps to initiate debate on this comprehensive bill next week, with the first procedural vote scheduled for no later than Wednesday.
The proposed $17.6 billion, as outlined by the House Appropriations Committee, encompasses funds to aid in replenishing Israel’s missile defense systems, acquiring additional advanced weapons systems, and manufacturing artillery and other munitions. Some of the funding will also be allocated to replace U.S. arms that were supplied to Israel following the Hamas attack on October 7. Speaker Johnson emphasized the urgency of supporting both Israel, as America’s closest ally, and their own forces in the region.
However, it remains uncertain whether certain far-right House members may oppose the funding for Israel without equivalent budgetary savings in other areas. Before the new military aid can be provided to Israel or Ukraine, both the House and Senate must pass the same bill and send it to President Joe Biden, a Democrat, for it to be signed into law. Additionally, the Senate intends to incorporate aid to Taiwan as part of its legislation.
Legislation providing $17.6 billion in new military assistance to Israel has been introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives. The funding bill may be voted on next week. Previously, the House approved $14.3 billion in aid, but the Senate disagreed. The Senate is expected to propose a bill that supports Israel and provides military aid to Ukraine. The bill may also include measures to enhance border security with Mexico. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer plans to start debate on the bill next week. The funding would help replenish Israel’s missile defense systems and provide advanced weapons. It would also replenish U.S. arms given to Israel after a recent attack. The bill must pass both the House and Senate before being signed into law by President Joe Biden. The Senate wants to include aid to Taiwan in the legislation.
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