House lawmakers voted 104-313 to reject an amendment proposed by Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., that aimed to cut $3.3 billion in foreign aid to Israel for the next fiscal year. The vote highlighted divisions within the Democratic Party regarding support for Israel, with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries and 97 other Democrats opposing the amendment, while Rep. Katherine Clark and 102 other Democrats supported it. The amendment was part of a State Department appropriations bill and was characterized by Massie as a measure to address what he termed as Israel being the 'biggest welfare recipient of the United States.'
Opponents of the amendment argued that cutting aid would harm U.S.-Israel relations and weaken Israel's ability to combat terrorist threats. Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart, R-Fla., stated that supporting Israel contributes to U.S. national security. Some Democrats criticized the amendment, with former House Majority Leader Steny Hoyer, D-Md., claiming it would embolden enemies of peace.
Despite the amendment's failure, supporters, including Congressional Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar, D-Texas, expressed optimism about the growing number of Democrats opposing aid to Israel. Recent polling indicates a shift in attitudes among Democrats, with a majority expressing more sympathy for Gaza than for Israel. The vote reflects ongoing debates within the party regarding U.S. foreign aid and military support.