Staff Reports
The House approved a resolution criticizing President Joe Biden for his threat to withhold weapons shipments to Israel in a vote led by Republicans. This has brought the issue into focus as the 2024 election approaches. In a 224-187 vote, lawmakers passed the Israel Security Assistance Support Act, which opposes Biden’s “dangerous hold” on weapons to Israel and proposes withholding funds from key government departments until the materials are delivered. The resolution also demands that Biden’s administration expedite weapons, funds, and other assistance within 30 days.
#BREAKING: House formally condemns Biden’s pause on weapons transfers to Israel https://t.co/m4pZ1vzQwk
— Washington Examiner (@dcexaminer) May 16, 2024
Many Republicans support the bill, especially after Biden’s recent threat to stop providing weapons to Israel if it invaded a particular city. However, the resolution has faced criticism from some pro-Israel Democrats who believe it is a political maneuver by Republicans. They argue that the administration is already taking the necessary steps and that the bill is unnecessary.
The bill’s future in the Democratic-led Senate is uncertain, with Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stating that it is “going nowhere.” Biden has also threatened to veto the resolution if it reaches his desk. House GOP leadership has accused Democrats of endangering a key ally in the fight against the Hamas militant group. They have called on Schumer to bring the legislation to the Senate floor, emphasizing the need to support Israel in combating terrorism.
The White House has pushed back against the resolution, describing it as a “misguided reaction to a deliberate distortion” of Biden’s strategy in Israel. They have reiterated the administration’s commitment to ensuring Israel’s defense needs are met.
