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US House passes $1 trillion defense bill despite Iran, Israel concerns

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News From a news agency New plan
  • The US House of Representatives passed its version of the fiscal 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, authorizing $1.15 trillion in military spending.
  • Democrats opposed the bill due to its high cost, the ongoing war with Iran, and increased military cooperation with Israel.
  • Republicans argued the spending is necessary for military operations, defense development, and troop benefits, while the bill's attachment to a voting law complicates its Senate passage.

The US House of Representatives narrowly approved its version of the fiscal 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, a sweeping bill that authorizes an unprecedented $1.15 trillion for the military. The vote, which passed 216 to 212, largely followed party lines, with most Republicans voting in favor and most Democrats voting against.

The fiscal 2027 National Defense Authorization Act, or NDAA, which authorizes an unprecedented $1.15 trillion in spending for the military, passed the House by 216 to 212.

— REUTERSReporting on the passage of the defense bill.

Democrats voiced strong objections to the bill's immense price tag, particularly as President Donald Trump and Republicans reduce spending on social programs. They also criticized the continued involvement in the war with Iran, which has already cost the US $37.5 billion, and a provision expanding military technology cooperation with Israel. Concerns were raised about the impact of Israeli actions in Gaza on Palestinian civilians.

Democrats objected to the huge amount of money being authorized for the Pentagon, at a time when President Donald Trump and his fellow Republicans are slashing spending on social programs.

— REUTERSExplaining Democratic opposition to the bill.

Conversely, Republicans defended the trillion-dollar spending as essential for supporting military operations in Iran, advancing defense systems, purchasing equipment, and providing troop benefits, including a 7% raise and improved housing. The bill's fate in the Senate remains uncertain, further complicated by its attachment to the "SAVE America Act," a Trump-backed voting rights bill that faces significant opposition in the Senate. This year's NDAA faces challenges due to deep partisan divisions on the budget, foreign conflicts, and social issues within the military.

Republicans said the trillion-dollar spending is essential to support the military as it wages war in Iran, fund defense systems development and equipment purchases and provide benefits for the troops like raises of up to 7% and construction for barracks and family housing.

— REUTERSDetailing Republican arguments for the defense spending.
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Originally published by Jerusalem Post. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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