An amendment proposed by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY) to cut off U.S. aid to Israel failed in the House of Representatives, with a vote tally of 314-104. The amendment was opposed by 215 Republicans and 98 Democrats, while 103 Democrats supported it, alongside Massie as the only Republican in favor. Ten House Democrats voted present. If passed, the amendment would have removed $3 billion in foreign aid to Israel from the appropriations bill for the National Security, Department of State, and related programs.
The proposal highlighted divisions within the Democratic Party regarding Israel, particularly among progressive members. Notable supporters included Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-NY) and Congressional Progressive Caucus Chairman Greg Casar (D-TX). However, Democratic leadership was fractured, with Democratic Whip Katherine Clark (D-MA) voting in favor, contrary to House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY), who opposed the amendment. Jeffries described the amendment as 'overly broad,' suggesting it could restrict humanitarian aid and other critical operations.
Clark expressed that her support was not an endorsement of the amendment's entirety but a call for a change in approach regarding military aid to Israel. She criticized the motivations behind the amendment as politically driven.