US, 22 April, 2024 President Joe Biden is urging Congress to swiftly pass legislation providing aid to Israel and Ukraine following Iran’s recent attack. In an op-ed for The Wall Street Journal, Biden emphasized the critical need for support to bolster the defense capabilities of both countries in the face of escalating threats.
The call for action comes in the aftermath of Iran’s missile and drone strikes, which targeted Israel in retaliation for a bombing incident in Syria. Biden underscored the importance of bolstering Israel’s air defenses and providing military aid to prevent further escalation of the conflict.
While bipartisan support for Israel remains strong in Washington, a $95 billion bill aimed at providing additional aid to Israel, Ukraine, and other allies has encountered obstacles in Congress. House Speaker Mike Johnson has faced pressure to advance the legislation, which has stalled due to disagreements over immigration and concerns about aid distribution.
In response to mounting pressure, Johnson has indicated plans to introduce bills for assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and the Asia Pacific region. However, the outcome of the vote remains uncertain as Democrats and Republicans navigate the complexities of foreign aid allocation.
President Biden emphasized the urgency of passing the supplemental funding bill, stressing that both Israel and Ukraine rely on American assistance to defend against external threats. Pentagon chief Lloyd Austin echoed the sentiment, highlighting the need to provide essential security assistance to Israel to ensure its defense capabilities.
As tensions continue to escalate in the region, the fate of the aid package hangs in the balance, with lawmakers weighing the implications of the ongoing geopolitical challenges.
