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🇮🇱 Israel /Elections & Politics

US House rejects bill to strip Israel aid despite over 100 Democrats voting to cut funding

From Jerusalem Post · () English

Translated from English, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Outcome reported
  • The US House of Representatives rejected an amendment to cut off aid to Israel, with 104 votes against and 314 in favor.
  • The amendment, proposed by Republican Thomas Massie, was supported by 103 Democrats, reflecting growing progressive dissent over the Gaza war.
  • Despite the vote, the amendment was largely symbolic as it would have faced a Senate challenge and a likely presidential veto.

The US House of Representatives decisively defeated an amendment seeking to halt aid to Israel, despite a significant bloc of Democrats supporting the measure. The vote, 314 to 104, underscored a widening rift within the Democratic party regarding US support for Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza.

Representative Thomas Massie, a fiscal conservative, introduced the amendment, which aimed to block funding for Israel and rescind $3.3 billion in annual security assistance. Massie cited the heavy civilian toll in Gaza, stating, "There have been 70,000 casualties in Gaza, and I don't think we should be part of that." This marks a notable departure from previous years, where support for Israel in Congress was nearly unanimous.

There have been 70,000 casualties in Gaza, and I don't think we should be part of that.

— Thomas MassieRepresentative Thomas Massie explaining his reasoning for offering the amendment to cut off aid to Israel during House debate.

The growing opposition among progressive Democrats, particularly as they campaign in midterm election primaries, contrasts with the stance of moderate Democrats who advocate for channeling funds towards defensive weapons. This internal party division highlights a shifting landscape in US policy towards Israel, a long-standing ally.

Even if the amendment had passed the House, its impact would have been limited. It would have required Senate approval and an override of an almost certain veto from President Donald Trump, who has consistently championed strong support for Israel. The vote, however, serves as a symbolic expression of the changing sentiments within a segment of the Democratic party concerning the war in Gaza.

too broad.

— Hakeem JeffriesHouse Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries stating his opposition to Massie's amendment.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Jerusalem Post in English. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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