On Saturday, the US House of Representatives approved aid totaling $95 billion to several countries, including Israel.
The aid package consists of $26.4 billion for Israel, with $4 billion allocated for replenishing stocks of the Tamir interceptor missile used by the Iron Dome air defense system. Additionally, $60.8 billion is designated for Ukraine, primarily for munitions, and $8.1 billion is earmarked for Taiwan. The package will now proceed to a Senate vote and ultimately to President Joe Biden for approval. Biden emphasized the urgency of the bill, stating, “It comes at a moment of grave urgency, with Israel facing unprecedented attacks from Iran and Ukraine under continued bombardment from Russia.”
RELATED ARTICLES
$4.4 billion of the aid to Israel will be used to replenish stocks of other munitions, while $3.5 billion is allocated for procuring advanced weapons systems. $2.4 billion will support US forces operating in the Middle East, and $1.2 billion is designated for the development of the Iron Beam laser and microwave system designed to complement the Iron Dome in intercepting short-range threats. Additionally, $9.1 billion will be directed towards humanitarian aid in the Gaza Strip.
Following the leadership of Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson in passing the aid bill for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan, there is anticipation regarding how Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer will handle the vote. The influence of critics of Israel within the Democratic Party may impact the timeline of the process.
Israel benefits from the inclusion of Ukraine and Taiwan in the $95 billion aid package. Just as there are pressures and interests related to criticism of Israel in the US, there are also concerns tied to Ukraine’s need for munitions in response to the Russian invasion, as well as Taiwan’s apprehensions regarding China’s actions.
Currently, Israel receives regular annual military aid of $3.3 billion, along with an additional $500 million for joint air defense projects.
Published by Globes, Israel business news – en.globes.co.il – on April 21, 2024.
© Copyright of Globes Publisher Itonut (1983) Ltd., 2024.
