Inside the $95 Billion House Package: Aid for Ukraine and Israel

 

Speaker Mike Johnson has introduced a comprehensive set of bills aimed at bolstering military aid to both Ukraine and Israel, while also addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza and strategic concerns in the Indo-Pacific region.

 

The package, totaling $95.3 billion, mirrors the Senate's previous approval in mid-February but includes adjustments tailored to gain support from House conservatives.

 

Here's a breakdown of the key components within the proposed bills:

Ukraine:

- Approximately $61 billion in aid is allocated to Ukraine, with over a third designated for replenishing U.S. military weapons and ammunition systems.

 

- Both House and Senate bills earmark $13.8 billion for Ukraine to procure weapons from the U.S.

 

- A notable distinction is the House bill's inclusion of over $9 billion in economic assistance as forgivable loans, a provision absent in the Senate bill.

 

- The House version also mandates the Biden administration to furnish Congress with a comprehensive plan within 45 days of enactment, outlining strategic objectives and resource requirements for Ukraine, addressing concerns about a lack of clarity in the administration's approach.

 

Israel:

- The legislation allocates over $26 billion to support Israel and provide humanitarian aid to Gaza residents.

 

- $4 billion is allocated in both bills to replenish Israel's missile defense systems, with an additional $2.4 billion for ongoing U.S. military operations in the region.

 

- Despite some conservative criticism regarding aid to Gaza, inclusion was deemed crucial to maintaining Democratic backing for the package. The humanitarian aid package surpasses $9 billion, aiming to alleviate dire conditions faced by Palestinians in Gaza.

 

Indo-Pacific:

- Approximately $8 billion is dedicated to countering China and bolstering deterrence efforts in the region.

 

- Both bills allocate a significant portion of funds, roughly a quarter, towards replenishing weapons and ammunition systems previously provided to Taiwan, aiming to ensure regional stability and security.

 

Overall, Speaker Johnson's proposed bills represent a concerted effort to address key geopolitical challenges while balancing the needs and priorities of various stakeholders within the House.