The Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act was released today by Defense Subcommittee Chairman Ken Calvert, providing $17.6 billion in military assistance for Israel. This measure also includes important funding for U.S. Forces in the region. Subcommittee Chairman Calvert is joined by Committee Chairwoman Kay Granger, State and Foreign Operations Subcommittee Chairman Mario Diaz-Balart, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, Majority Whip Tom Emmer, and Conference Chair Elise Stefanik as original cosponsors of the bill.
The House took action in response to the October 7th terrorist attack, passing a $14.3 billion Israel supplemental and a resolution condemning the actions of Hamas. The bill released today includes the originally proposed funding, as well as additional funds for the U.S. military to address the increasingly dangerous situation in the Middle East.
The Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act reinforces Israeli defense systems by providing $4 billion to replenish the Iron Dome and David's Sling missile defense systems. It also allocates $1.2 billion for the Iron Beam defense system to counter short-range rockets and mortar threats. Additionally, the bill includes $3.5 billion for the procurement of advanced weapons systems, defense articles, and defense services through the Foreign Military Financing Program. Another $1 billion is designated to enhance the production and development of artillery and critical munitions.
Furthermore, the act ensures that U.S. support for Israel does not compromise U.S. readiness. It provides $4.4 billion to replenish defense articles and defense services provided to Israel, as well as $3.3 billion for current U.S. military operations in the region in response to the October 7th attack.
The Israel Security Supplemental Appropriations Act also addresses the protection of U.S. personnel and the evacuation of U.S. citizens. It allocates $200 million for these purposes, including $150 million for enhanced embassy security and protection for U.S. personnel. An additional $50 million is designated for emergency evacuations of American citizens in the region as a result of the conflict.
This bill reaffirms the commitment of the United States to the security and well-being of Israel. It provides crucial funding for the defense systems of Israel, as well as support for U.S. military operations and the protection of U.S. personnel and citizens in the region.
