House of Representatives Passes Israeli Aid Bill in Show of Unity and Support for Israel

On Thursday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed an Israeli aid bill, led by Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA). The bill, which is unlikely to become law, was passed with support from a dozen Democrats. The move is seen as an attempt to appease Johnson’s right flank, and to avoid potential ads targeting Democrats for their opposition to Israeli aid.

The bill was passed just over three weeks after a candlelight vigil was held on the east steps of the U.S. Capitol to honor the victims of the Oct. 7 attack in Israel and to show support for the country. U.S. Rep. Debbie Wasserman Schultz (D-Fla.), who is Jewish and was the designated speaker for Democrats at the event, tearfully thanked her colleagues for coming together so quickly.

The Senate, however, is still proceeding with two foreign aid bundles linked together, and is not likely to pass the House bill. This puts Speaker Johnson at odds with the Senate, as the House bill is unlikely to become law.

The passing of the bill is seen as a sign of unity between Democrats and Republicans in the House, despite the fact that the bill is unlikely to become law. It is also seen as a sign of support for Israel, as the bill was passed just weeks after the candlelight vigil. The bill is a reminder of the strong relationship between the United States and Israel, and of the commitment of both parties to stand in solidarity with the country.