The U.S. House of Representatives has passed a Republican-sponsored bill providing $14.5 billion in military aid to Israel. The partisan legislation faces dim prospects of becoming law due to opposition from President Biden and Senate Democrats.
The aid package, funded by cuts to the IRS, passed the Republican-controlled House 226-196 along party lines on Thursday. It includes $4 billion to replenish Israel's missile defense systems.
House Speaker Mike Johnson urged the Senate and White House to swiftly approve the bill. However, Biden opposes the IRS cuts and the lack of Ukraine aid in the package. The White House said the bill would have "devastating implications" for U.S. security.
Biden has instead proposed a $106 billion emergency spending bill with aid for Israel, Taiwan, and Ukraine. But some Republicans question continuing major support for Ukraine amid budget deficits.
The bill is unlikely to pass the Democratic-led Senate or get Biden's signature. Democrats accuse Republicans of delaying aid to key U.S. allies with this partisan proposal.
The U.S. has provided Israel over $124 billion in military assistance since World War 2, more than any other country. Israel already receives $3.8 billion annually under a 10-year deal started in 2016.
This new House bill represents a partisan clash over U.S. foreign aid. Bipartisan compromise will be needed for Congress to actually deliver additional security funding to staunch allies like Israel.