Vote Explainer — Israel Aid Supplemental

Transparency is vital to democracy. Below please find explainers for key votes I took in the 118th Congress.

H.R. 8034 - Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act of 2024

Today I voted in favor of H.R. 8034, a bill to provide additional military and humanitarian aid to Israel and Gaza. I did so primarily for two reasons: to enhance deterrence in the Middle East and to reduce human suffering across the globe. Given the majority of money appropriated in this bill is allocated to support defensive systems and humanitarian aid, this was the right bill for the moment.

I have been clear since the barbaric Hamas attack of October 7th that Israel has a right and obligation to defend itself, and we have always stood by Israel's side in doing so, even when we disagree. Hamas is a terrorist group that seeks to destroy the state of Israel. Israel must defeat Hamas, both for Israel's security and for any chance of a future, peaceful, two-state solution.

This bill deters further conflict and escalation by strengthening Israel's ability to defend itself. Just last week, Israel's defensive systems prevented huge numbers of casualties on both sides. Had the hundreds of Iranian missiles and drones hit their marks, hundreds, if not thousands, of Israelis would have been killed, and we can assume Israel's response would have been devastating as well. And this all could have escalated already into a wider Middle Eastern war, which could easily spiral to involve U.S. troops. Supporting Israel's defense will allow it to deter further attacks and avoid escalation.

We also all know the tragic humanitarian situation in Gaza, where humanitarian aid is so badly needed. This bill provides $9.5 billion for humanitarian relief - not only in Gaza, but in Myanmar, Sudan, and other areas devastated by conflict. These resources will go far to reduce suffering and will save lives.

I want to be clear on two points. First, this aid is not a blank check to Israel. As I have said repeatedly, Netanyahu's conduct of this conflict with respect to civilians in Gaza is both a military and moral failure. When it comes to the provisions of this bill that offer offensive military support for their operations in Gaza, Israel must comply with American law. This includes using American military aid in accordance with the law of armed conflict, and precludes Israel from blocking American-provided humanitarian aid. I reiterate a clear expectation that Israel comply with these terms, and urge the President to carefully consider each sale or transfer of weapons to Israel in light of their compliance with these universal legal requirements.

Second, the only path to durable peace in the Middle East is a two-state solution. Neither Israelis or Palestinians will ever be safe if both are not free and secure. Both people deserve leaders who will deliver peace, and the international community must support them in that endeavor. You can count on me to continue strongly advocating for a peaceful conclusion of this generations-long war.