Washington, D.C. – A bipartisan effort to amend a foreign aid bill to withhold aid from Israel until Hamas releases hostages and a ceasefire is implemented has failed in the House.
Amendment Rejected by House Rules Committee
Democratic Representatives Rashida Tlaib and Cori Bush proposed the amendment, which called for:
- A lasting ceasefire between Israel and Hamas
- The release of hostages held by Hamas
- Diplomacy to secure self-determination for both Palestinians and Israelis
The House Rules Committee refused to consider the measure, paving the way for the House to approve the billion foreign aid bill, which includes funding for Israel as well as humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip.
Hamas Rejects Ceasefire Offers
Despite repeated offers of a ceasefire, Hamas has rejected them, including calls for the release of hostages its fighters have held captive since October 7, 2022.
Progressive Democrats Condemn Bill
Progressive Democrats, including Representatives Tlaib and Bush, criticized the bill, arguing that it is a “death warrant” for Palestinians and that it sends the message that Palestinian lives are not as valuable as Israeli lives.
Genocide Allegations Against IDF
Critics, including Representative Bush, have accused the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) of committing genocide during its battle with Hamas fighters in Gaza. Israeli and U.S. officials have rejected these claims.
Republicans Support Israel
For the most part, Republicans have been united in their support for Israel and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. They argue that the aid is necessary to support Israel’s security.
Israel Strikes Against Iran
The news comes amidst heightened tensions in the region, as Israel recently carried out limited strikes against Iran in retaliation for a barrage of airstrikes Tehran fired on Israel. No large-scale damage or casualties were reported in either incident.
Data sourced from: foxnews.com
