Democratic Party Split as Majority of House Democrats Support Ending US Aid to Israel

The US House of Representatives is set to vote on a proposal to completely cut American aid to Israel, with an estimated 70% of Democratic lawmakers backing the measure. This vote, expected on Wednesday evening, highlights a significant rift within the Democratic Party and marks a historic low in support for Israel among its members.

The proposal, introduced by Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, aims to halt $3.3 billion in US aid to Israel, covering both civilian and military assistance. Massie, known for his fringe and anti-Israel views, lost his congressional seat following conflicts with former President Donald Trump. Despite being a Republican initiative, the bill has stirred intense debate primarily within the Democratic Party.

House Democratic Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced his opposition to the proposal, describing it as "too broad" and warning it would undermine efforts against Hezbollah and Hamas. However, Jeffries stated he would not actively campaign against it and indicated future US military aid to Israel might be conditioned on improvements in Palestinian human rights. Meanwhile, Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar urged Democrats to support the amendment, arguing that American taxpayers oppose funding Israel's military.

This vote represents the first direct congressional decision on cutting US aid to Israel in the current session and underscores deep divisions over US-Israel relations within the Democratic Party. Recent closed-door discussions among Democrats and prior Senate votes reflect growing skepticism; in April, about 75% of Senate Democrats supported measures to block arms sales to Israel, a sharp increase compared to previous years.

The ongoing debate reveals a shifting landscape in US political support for Israel, with implications for future foreign policy and aid commitments amid complex regional dynamics.