The House of Representatives is gearing up for a crucial vote on a bill that addresses President Biden's decision to block offensive weapons aid to Israel. The bill, known as the Israel Security Assistance Support Act, is set to be voted on Thursday.
President Biden has faced criticism from both sides of the aisle for withholding a bomb shipment to Israel out of concerns it could be used in Rafah and for cautioning against sending offensive weapons if they were to be used in Gaza's southern population centers.
The proposed legislation aims to denounce the President's stance on Israel's actions in Gaza while compelling the Biden administration to promptly deliver any weapons shipments that have already been approved by Congress. Additionally, the bill includes provisions to withhold funding from key officials if there are any delays in providing weapons aid.
Despite opposition from Democratic leaders in the House and the White House, the bill is expected to garner support from a few left-leaning lawmakers. Sources suggest that around 10 to under 20 left-wing lawmakers may join Republicans in backing the bill.
Notably, Representatives Ritchie Torres of New York and Greg Landsman of Ohio have publicly stated their intention to support the bill. The issue of Israel has become a contentious topic, with the GOP using it as a political tool amid a growing number of Democrats questioning the traditional unwavering support for Israel.
House Minority Whip Katherine Clark has dismissed the bill as a 'political sham,' criticizing its timing during a period of global conflict. The White House has issued a veto threat, labeling the bill as a 'misguided reaction' to a misrepresentation of the administration's approach to Israel.
The upcoming vote follows President Biden's recent announcement of a $1 billion weapons shipment to Israel, underscoring the ongoing debate over U.S. support for the nation.
