NewsHouse to prioritize Israel support bill, delaying Ukraine aid

House to prioritize Israel support bill, delaying Ukraine aid

The House of Representatives changes plan. Wants to help "Israeli ally"
The House of Representatives changes plan. Wants to help "Israeli ally"
Images source: © Wikimedia Commons | aoc.gov

9:46 AM EDT, April 14, 2024

In response to the Iranian attack on Israel, the House of Representatives is set to revise its work schedule to prioritize a bill in support of Israel, announced Steve Scalise, the Republican majority leader. This shift in focus may further delay the passage of a much-needed aid package for Ukraine.

"In light of Iran’s unjustified attack on Israel, the House will move from its previously announced legislative schedule next week to instead consider legislation that supports our ally Israel and holds Iran and its terrorist proxies accountable," stated Scalise, the second-ranking Republican in the House. "The House of Representatives stands strongly with Israel, and there must be consequences for this unprovoked attack," he continued, promising further details on the proposed bill soon.

The attack has been universally condemned by political leaders across the board, including Chuck Schumer, the Democratic Senate leader known for his critical stance on Benjamin Netanyahu's administration, who recently advocated for new Israeli elections. Mike Johnson, Speaker of the House, critiqued President Biden's lenient stance towards Iran, pledging to "demand a proper response" to the attack from Tehran.

Could the Middle East conflict further complicate Ukraine's situation?

The proposal for a separate aid package for Israel could potentially hinder the delivery of assistance to Ukraine. Following an indirect endorsement from former President Donald Trump on Friday for Ukraine support—albeit as loans—Congressional members from both political parties anticipated that the House would tackle this subject after a prolonged stalemate.

In light of Saturday's attack, certain Democratic legislators have urged Johnson to consider a bill already passed by the Senate in February. This legislation proposes $60 billion in aid for Ukraine and $14 billion for Israel. Yet, both Johnson and Scalise appear to dismiss this option, proposing instead an alternative package. In line with Trump's preference, this new plan suggests converting the direct financial aid intended for Ukraine into loan-based support.