Payam Javan: In a setback on Feb. 6, the House rejected a standalone bill aimed at providing $17.6 billion in assistance to Israel during its conflict with Hamas. The proposal fell short of the necessary two-thirds majority, with a final vote of 250–۱۸۰٫

The breakdown revealed a split, as 203 Republicans and 46 Democrats supported the measure, while 166 Democrats and 14 Republicans opposed it. The bill included funding for missile defense systems, notably $4 billion for Iron Dome and David’s Sling, and $1.2 billion for the Iron Beam defense system.

Biden, already opposed to the bill, threatened to veto it. The legislation faced uncertainty in the Democrat-controlled Senate.

The administration advocated for a broader supplemental bill encompassing aid to Israel, Ukraine, and immigration measures. House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Biden’s veto threat, stating it amounted to abandoning an ally.

The political divide was evident, with the White House accusing Republicans of playing politics, and GOP leaders asserting their support for Israel. Former President Trump’s influence was noted, with Biden attributing opposition to political motivations.

House Democrat leaders, including Hakeem Jeffries and Katherine Clark, dismissed the standalone bill as a “cynical attempt” to undermine the broader supplemental. The House Freedom Caucus expressed disappointment over increased spending and urged offsets.