Congressional leaders indicated that they would consider a significant aid bill for Israel next week as the country comes under a significant attack by hundreds of Iranian drones and missiles. The move may bring together many of the Democratic and Republican members of Congress toward fast-tracking the bill.
House Majority Leader Rep. Steve Scalise (R-LA) said on Saturday that 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.”
“The House of Representatives stands strongly with Israel, and there must be consequences for this unprovoked attack,” he added.
Scalise said that Congress will consider a new aid package for Israel, with details to be released soon.
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.
The House of Representatives…
— Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) April 13, 2024
House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA) made a similar statement, indicating that he was working with the White House to expedite a package for Israel. He also criticized the White House for what he called appeasing Iran.
“As Israel faces this vicious attack from Iran, America must show our full resolve to stand with our critical ally. The world must be assured: Israel is not alone,” said Johnson.
“I will continue to engage with the White House to insist upon a proper response. The Biden Administration’s undermining of Israel and appeasement of Iran have contributed to these terrible developments,” he said.
Over the weekend Iran launched hundreds of drones and missiles at Israel in retaliation for a strike in Damascus, Syria that killed a number of senior Iranian officials.
Many of the projectiles were shot down by Israeli and American forces in the region, but some impacted Israel. The attack represented the first time that Iran launched a direct attack on Israeli soil.
The move came just weeks after Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) criticized the Israeli government and called for elections to replace Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.
It also came after significant criticism from the Biden administration regarding the ongoing conflict in Gaza, including the planned attack on Hamas’ last major stronghold of Rafah.
