Hakeem Jeffries Opposes Amendment to Cut $3.3 Billion Israel Aid

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced Tuesday his opposition to an amendment proposed by Republican Representative Thomas Massie that would eliminate approximately $3.3 billion in annual U.S. security assistance to Israel. The amendment targets a $47 billion foreign affairs spending bill for the State Department and national security programs. Jeffries argued the measure is overly broad and would hinder U.S. efforts to confront terrorist organizations like Hamas and Hezbollah, as well as jeopardize refugee resettlement and humanitarian aid.

Despite his opposition, Jeffries declined to whip the Democratic caucus, allowing members to vote their conscience. This decision exposed a rift within the party. Representative Greg Casar, chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, and Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez urged Democrats to support the cuts to shift party policy regarding Gaza. In a notable break from leadership, House Minority Whip Katherine Clark announced she would vote yes, citing a need to change course despite the amendment's poor drafting.

While maintaining that U.S. commitment to Israel's existence remains ironclad, Jeffries criticized the far-right government of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for isolating Israel and undermining peace. He suggested that a future memorandum of understanding beginning in 2028 should end military subsidies, noting that Israel's advanced economy enables it to pay for its own weapons. The American Israel Public Affairs Committee and J Street also opposed the amendment, while the measure is expected to fail due to anticipated Republican opposition.