US Congress Building (Getty Images)
US House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson revealed legislation to provide new military aid to Israel worth $17.6 billion as part of its war on Hamas, and it is expected to be approved within days.
Johnson said in a message to members that the full House may vote this week on the funding bill put forward by the House Appropriations Committee, adding in his message that “the need to support our closest allies and forces in the region is more urgent than ever,” he said.
According to the House Appropriations Committee, the $17.6 billion in funding will be used to help modernize Israel's missile defense systems, purchase additional advanced weapons systems, and produce artillery and other munitions.
Some of the money will also be used to renew the American weapons provided to Israel after the Al-Aqsa Flood operation launched by the Palestinian resistance, led by the Qassam Brigades, against Israel on October 7.
Previous aid package
The House of Representatives - controlled by Republicans - had previously agreed to provide new military aid to Israel worth $14.3 billion, but on the condition that it be paid by deducting a large portion of the funds that were already allocated to the US Internal Revenue Service.
The Senate - controlled by Democrats - rejected this condition, and is expected to unveil a legislative package that would help Israel, in addition to providing more military aid to Ukraine in its war against Russia.
It is expected - according to Reuters - that the package will also include proposals to enhance security on the southern border of the United States with Mexico.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is taking steps to begin discussion of the multifaceted bill this week, with the first procedural vote no later than Wednesday.
If the US Congress, represented by the House of Representatives and the Senate, approves the draft law, it will be sent to President Joe Biden for his signature to become effective.
Source: Reuters