The House Freedom Caucus is cautioning GOP leadership against using Iran’s recent attack on Israel as a pretext for expanding aid to Ukraine.
Lawmakers across party lines are urging the House to pass a Senate-approved foreign aid package covering both Israel and Ukraine. However, the Freedom Caucus views the attack as an inadequate justification for increasing assistance to Ukraine.
In an official statement issued Monday, the conservative group labeled the notion of tying Israel’s situation to Ukraine aid as a “bogus justification.”
Freedom Caucus (Credits: The Hill)
They emphasized their unwavering support for Israel but advocated for the Senate to consider the stand-alone Israel aid bill passed by the House in November. This bill, which also included cuts to IRS funding, is viewed as a more favorable approach by the Freedom Caucus.
Senate Democrats have opposed the House’s Israel aid bill due to concerns about the proposed IRS cuts and the separation of aid for Israel and Ukraine. Nonetheless, the Freedom Caucus maintains its position, urging swift action on the Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act.
As the House prepares to enter discussions on foreign aid this week, Speaker Mike Johnson’s approach remains uncertain. While he has pledged to revisit Israel aid legislation, he has not disclosed whether Ukraine aid will be included.
Johnson has floated the idea of providing aid to Ukraine in the form of a loan, along with the REPO Act utilizing seized Russian assets.
Mike Johnson (Credits: Axios)
Meanwhile, pressure mounts from both parties and chambers to address the comprehensive Senate foreign aid package, which includes support for Israel, Ukraine, and Taiwan. Minority Leaders Hakeem Jeffries and Mitch McConnell have urged swift action on this bill, emphasizing its importance in confronting global aggression.
However, Johnson faces potential challenges within his own party, with Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene threatening to force a vote on his removal from office. Greene has expressed opposition to putting Ukraine aid on the floor and has warned Johnson accordingly.
Despite potential internal divisions, Democrats have signaled willingness to support Johnson in advancing Ukraine aid if it means addressing broader national security concerns. Finally Johnson’s decision on foreign aid legislation will traverse a complex political landscape, with implications for both domestic and international priorities.
