In a rare display of dissent within the Democratic Party, some left-leaning House Democrats are urging their colleagues to oppose a $26 billion aid package for Israel. Citing concerns over the use of offensive weapons against civilians in Gaza, progressive leaders in the House are framing the upcoming vote as a moral choice akin to past decisions on military funding.
While the aid package is expected to pass the House, progressive Democrats estimate that 40-60 members may oppose it, signaling discontent with President Biden’s support for Israel’s tactics. This is a significant development given the traditionally strong bipartisan support for Israel.
Critics argue that providing offensive weapons without conditions endorses Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s prosecution of the war in Gaza, resulting in civilian casualties and a hunger crisis. Some Democrats support defensive weapons for Israel but oppose offensive weapons that fuel the conflict.
The vote recalls past instances of dividing spending legislation to accommodate differing coalition viewpoints, with Democrats hoping to influence President Biden’s approach to Israel. Those opposing the aid package hope that a significant number of “no” votes will pressure the administration to condition aid and halt offensive weapons transfers – potentially influencing Israel’s approach to the conflict.
Representative Dan Kildee from Michigan believes that a large “no” vote will strengthen the president’s hand to withhold offensive weapons from Israel, leading to a potential course correction in U.S. policy towards the conflict. Stay tuned as this debate unfolds within the Democratic Party in the coming days.
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