Over 100 House Democrats buck Jeffries and vote to cut all aid to Israel

Over 100 House Democrats recently broke with leadership to support an amendment introduced by Rep. Thomas Massie that aimed to cut all U.S. aid to Israel. The measure failed on the House floor with a final vote of 314-104, receiving opposition from the majority of both parties. Had it passed, the amendment would have stripped $3 billion in foreign aid from the National Security and Department of State appropriations bill. The proposal highlighted deepening divisions within the Democratic Party regarding Israel, with prominent progressives showing strong support. Notably, Democratic Whip Katherine Clark voted in favor of the amendment, creating a visible rift with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries. Jeffries had previously expressed his opposition, arguing that the amendment was too broad and could jeopardize essential humanitarian and embassy operations. Despite her vote, Clark characterized the amendment as a cynical political stunt by Republicans rather than a serious policy debate. She stated that her support reflected a personal belief that the current U.S. approach requires a change in course. Ultimately, the vote demonstrated how Israel has become a splintering issue for House Democrats. Despite these internal disagreements, party members maintained that they remain united in the pursuit of permanent peace.