Nearly half of House Democrats vote to cut off aid to Israel as public opinion shifts

Key Points:

• House Democrats were sharply divided over a vote to end U.S. aid to Israel, exposing tensions between progressive members pushing to cut assistance and centrist Democrats defending the longstanding alliance.
• House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries voted against the amendment to cut aid, calling it too broad, while Minority Whip Katherine Clark broke ranks to support it, citing the need to change course on U.S. military funding to Israel.
• The amendment, proposed by Republican Thomas Massie, sought to block $3.3 billion in security assistance to Israel but was rejected 104-314, with 103 Democrats joining Republicans in favor and 98 Democrats opposing.
• Progressive Democrats, including Progressive Caucus Chair Greg Casar, advocated for the amendment as part of a new approach toward Israel and Palestine, reflecting shifting public opinion and growing concern over Israel's conduct in Gaza and the region.
• The vote highlighted internal Democratic debates over U.S. policy in the Middle East amid ongoing conflict, with some members expressing support for Israel while condemning its government's actions and humanitarian impact.