President Biden Threatens Veto of Standalone Israel Aid Bill
Biden Administration’s Stance on House Republicans’ Bill
The Biden administration announced that President Joe Biden would veto a standalone bill providing aid to Israel, as the White House pushes for a broader measure including assistance to Ukraine and Israel, as well as new funds for border security.
Push for a Comprehensive National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act
The White House Office of Management and Budget strongly encourages Congress to reject the standalone bill and instead quickly send the bipartisan Emergency National Security Supplemental Appropriations Act to the President’s desk.
New Legislation Combining Immigration Policy and Emergency Aid
The administration has been working with Senate Democrats and Republicans on legislation combining an overhaul of U.S. immigration policy, new funding for border security, and emergency aid for Ukraine, Israel, and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.
Contentious Spending Measure
The $118 billion spending measure also includes humanitarian assistance to civilians affected by global conflicts.
Opposition to the Comprehensive Legislation
The administration strongly opposes the standalone bill, emphasizing that it fails to secure the border, help Ukraine defend itself, support the security of American synagogues and mosques, and provide humanitarian assistance to Palestinian civilians.
Response from Republican House Speaker
Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson announced that the House would reject the bipartisan Senate bill and vote on a measure providing aid only to Israel, prompting a strong reaction from the President.
Republican Division and Trump’s Opposition
Republicans are divided over the legislation, with Donald Trump and his allies voicing opposition and calling the Senate plan insufficiently tough.
Israel-Only Bill and Democratic Response
The Republican-majority House passed an Israel-only bill in November, but it was never taken up in the Democratic-led Senate as negotiators worked on Biden’s request for a broader emergency security package.
