In recent days, the House of Representatives has passed several bills aimed at pressuring President Biden over his handling of the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza. These legislative actions come as Republicans ramp up pressure on Democrats to take a stronger stance against Hamas and support Israel.
The first bill, which was passed on May 16, 2024, compels the delivery of defensive weapons to Israel by preventing Biden from withholding or halting approved weapons transfers. The legislation requires any withheld weapons to be delivered within 15 days of its enactment.
Three Republicans and 16 Democrats voted for this bill in the House. The White House has expressed opposition to the measure, stating that it would undermine Biden's ability to execute an effective foreign policy. However, it is unlikely that this bill will be taken up in the Democratic-led Senate.
A second bill was passed on May 17, 2024. This legislation restricts the president's ability to withhold weapons transfers to Israel and has been described as a rebuke of Biden's administration for turning their backs on Israel and sowing doubt about US commitment to allies.
Sixteen Democrats joined Republicans in voting for this bill, which is also not expected to be taken up in the Senate. The White House has emphasized its opposition to the measure, arguing that it would undermine Biden's ability to execute an effective foreign policy and potentially harm US-Israeli relations.
The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in Gaza has resulted in a humanitarian crisis, with both sides accusing each other of violating international law. The Biden administration has faced pressure from lawmakers in both parties to limit shipments of arms amid the crisis.
It is important to note that these bills are largely symbolic and have little chance of becoming law. However, they do highlight the divided opinions within the Democratic caucus on this issue and underscore the political significance of US-Israeli relations.
