The House voted 314-104 to reject an amendment by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) that would have cut $3.3 billion in U.S. aid to Israel. The vote revealed deep divisions among House Democrats, with 103 voting in favor of the amendment, 98 opposing it, and 10 voting present.
Democratic Leadership Divided
House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY) opposed the amendment, calling it "overly broad" and arguing it could limit humanitarian aid, refugee resettlement, and U.S. embassy operations. However, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA) broke with Jeffries, supporting the amendment. Clark stated that the status quo is "not tenable" and that the U.S. should not provide a "blank check" for military aid to Israel.
Progressive vs. Centrist Democrats
Progressive Democrats, including Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Congressional Progressive Caucus Chairman Greg Casar (D-TX), overwhelmingly supported the amendment. Centrist Democrats, such as House Democratic Caucus Chairman Pete Aguilar (D-CA), opposed it, arguing that cutting aid would harm U.S.-Israel relations and Israel's ability to combat terrorist groups like Hamas and Hezbollah.
Republican Opposition
Rep. Thomas Massie, the sole Republican to support the amendment, argued that Israel is the "biggest welfare recipient" of the U.S. Republicans largely opposed the measure, with Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart (R-FL) stating that the aid supports U.S. defense manufacturers and helps combat threats to both Israel and the U.S.
Broader Context
The vote comes amid shifting public opinion on U.S. support for Israel, particularly among progressive Democrats. Some progressives have called for cutting aid until Israel changes its approach to Gaza. The debate also highlights tensions within the Democratic Party over foreign policy and Israel's actions in the region.
Iron Dome Controversy
Rep. Ro Khanna (D-CA) initially supported the amendment, arguing against funding for Israel's Iron Dome defensive system. However, he later clarified that the amendment would not affect Iron Dome funding. Critics argue that defunding Iron Dome could lead to higher civilian casualties in Israel and the region.