The rally comes at a crucial moment, with calls for a ceasefire in the region. At the same time, Congress is pushing to pass a foreign aid package by the end of the year to provide much-needed assistance to key U.S. allies such as Israel and Ukraine. With only three weeks left on the legislative calendar, crafting a bipartisan deal presents an open question.
Amid the urgency following Hamas’ attack on Israel and bipartisan support for Ukraine, President Joe Biden’s emergency request for foreign aid is facing obstacles in the House and Senate. Issues such as Israel’s conflict in Gaza, funding sources, and immigration reform have left both houses in a deadlock.
The fate of an Israel-only aid bill remains uncertain, as House Republicans have proposed an offset provision to cover its cost through cuts to the Internal Revenue Service budget − a proposal that has been met with resistance from Democrats. As for Ukraine aid, support among Republicans has waned, with many linking it to immigration reform.
While the fate of the aid package remains uncertain, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed hope for an agreement on the Senate floor, emphasizing shared bipartisan concern for aiding these nations.
The controversy over conditioning aid to Israel as progressive lawmakers call for Israel to reduce civilian casualties in the Gaza war has sparked an internal debate among Democrats.
The situation in Ukraine is also dire, with any unconditional support for the European ally diminishing. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin’s visit and subsequent military assistance emphasize U.S. efforts to support Ukraine amid the ongoing conflict.
With time running out, Congress faces a pressing need to resolve these issues and secure an aid package that meets the requirements of all parties involved.
