(Cupventi.com) – The House of Representatives passed a bill with a 226 to 196 vote, approving the allocation of $14.3 billion in federal aid to Israel.
This decision, supported by some Democrats and most Republicans, involves redirecting funds from the IRS as outlined in President Biden’s Inflation Reduction Act. Notably, 12 Democrats joined Republicans in passing the bill, with only two Republicans, Reps. Marjorie Taylor Greene and Thomas Massie, voting against it.
Republicans, including Chairman Gary Palmer, praised the bill, emphasizing support for Israel as a crucial ally while cutting funding from the IRS.
Palmer stated, “Israel has every right to defend itself,” highlighting the ongoing conflict with Hamas. The bill’s passage was celebrated by Republicans, who framed it as aiding an ally and reducing funds to the IRS.
The bill’s fate in the Senate remains uncertain, with Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressing skepticism and referring to it as a “joke.” Schumer criticized the tie between Israel aid and a partisan proposal, emphasizing the need to address the global crisis, particularly supporting Israel against Hamas.
Senate leaders advocate for an Israel aid package that includes support for Ukraine, aiming for a combined package with U.S. border security measures.
President Biden, seeking $106 billion in supplemental funding covering Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan, the U.S. border, and humanitarian causes, indicated his intention to veto a standalone Israel aid bill.
The Office of Management and Budget argued that the legislation is detrimental to Israel, the Middle East, and U.S. national security. The bill’s journey through the Senate is likely to face challenges and discussions on its broader implications.