US House defeats amendment to cut $3.3 bn Israel aid, Democrats split on vote

The U.S. House of Representatives voted 314‑104 on July 15 to defeat an amendment that would have halted $3.3 billion in annual security assistance to Israel. The proposal, introduced by Republican Rep. Thomas Massie of Kentucky, sought to bar any funding for Israel in the State Department appropriations bill. While all Republicans opposed the measure, 103 Democrats joined Massie in supporting it, highlighting a deepening rift within the Democratic Party over U.S. support for Israel.

Democratic leaders were divided: Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries called the amendment “overly broad” and warned it could jeopardize humanitarian programs, whereas Minority Whip Katherine Clark said the status quo was “not tenable” and voted for the cut. Progressive members such as Greg Casar framed the vote as a response to civilian casualties in Gaza, which Massie cited – “70,000 casualties in Gaza, we should not be part of that.”

The amendment’s defeat is largely symbolic; it would have required Senate approval and a presidential veto override—President Donald Trump, a strong Israel supporter, is expected to veto. The vote reflects growing pressure on Democrats from primary challenges and shifting public opinion, and it sets the stage for further debate on U.S.–Israel relations ahead of the 2026 midterm elections.