After Iran attack, Kirby calls for floor vote on Israel-Ukraine aid
Published Date: 4/14/2024
Source: axios.com

White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby on Sunday said Israel and Ukraine funding should be put on the House floor "as soon as possible."

The big picture: The push comes shortly after Iran launched attack drones and missiles against Israel on Saturday night local time in retaliation for an airstrike in Syria that killed a top Iranian general, Axios' Barak Ravid reported.


What he's saying: "We didn't need any reminders in terms of what's going on in Ukraine. But last night certainly underscores significantly the threat that Israel faces in a very, very tough neighborhood," Kirby said on NBC's "Meet the Press" Sunday.

  • Kirby noted that all the House needs to do "is take it up" and "put it on the floor," telling "Meet the Press" moderator Kristen Welker that "you and I both know the votes are there."
  • "But we're just looking for leadership out of the speaker's office: get it on the floor, get it voted on so that not only Israel can get additional resources and defend itself — which they clearly need — but that Ukraine can as well," he added.

Catch up quick: The Senate passed the $95 billion foreign aid bill, but it has been stalled for weeks in the House. The bill includes funding for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan and Palestinian civilians.

  • Meanwhile, Iran's recent attack has sparked a renewed push by Republican lawmakers to pass a standalone military aid bill to Israel, Axios' Andrew Solender reported.

Go deeper: Iranian attack on Israel reignites Congress' fight over foreign aid