Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman denounces President Biden's pause on a weapons shipment to Israel, calling it an "abandonment" of the country amid increasing Middle East conflict.
On the steps of the Capitol, House Speaker Mike Johnson and other Republicans lambasted President Biden for withholding military aid to Israel as the country faces off against Hamas. Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel David Friedman joined the chorus of criticism, accusing the administration of "abandonment."
Friedman's remarks came as the House prepared to vote on a bill that would force the delivery of bombs to Israel, circumventing the Biden administration's pause on the weapons shipment. The bill was met with opposition from Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who declared that it would not receive floor time in the Senate.
The Biden administration has defended the pause on the bomb shipment, citing concerns about civilian casualties in densely populated areas of Gaza. However, Republicans have vehemently opposed the decision, accusing Biden of turning his back on Israel, America's closest ally in the Middle East.
The bill condemning Biden's pause on the weapons shipment would withhold funding for the State Department, Department of Defense, and the National Security Council until the delivery is made. Even if the legislation passes the House, the White House has threatened to veto it.
Despite the impending veto, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise argued that public pressure would force Schumer to bring the bill to the Senate floor. He accused Biden of "impeding Israel's ability to defend themselves" while Iran continues to provide support to Hamas.
The debate over the bill reflects the deeply fractured political landscape in Washington regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. While Democrats have expressed frustration with Biden's decision, progressives have condemned the ongoing weapons shipments to Israel.
The White House and Democratic leadership have struggled to rally support from their caucus, as some moderates question the daylight between the U.S. and Israel, while others oppose any weapons assistance to the country.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has escalated in recent weeks, with Hamas firing over 300 drones and missiles into Israel. Israel has responded with airstrikes and a ground offensive, but civilian casualties have mounted on both sides.
The Biden administration's handling of the crisis has drawn criticism from both sides of the political spectrum. Republicans have accused the president of abandoning Israel, while progressives have criticized his continued support for the country amid ongoing violence.
As the conflict continues, the debate over U.S. policy towards Israel and Hamas is set to intensify, with the outcome of the pending legislation having a significant impact on the future of the crisis.
