US Secretary of State Antony Blinken and Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin made a compelling case on Tuesday for lawmakers to quickly pass the Biden administration's national security funding request of $105 billion. The funding package includes significant support for Israel's military efforts and aid for Ukraine's ongoing war, with Blinken and Austin emphasizing that these two conflicts are interconnected. They warned that failing to pass the aid together would only embolden adversaries of the United States on a global scale.

During a Senate Appropriations Committee hearing, Blinken, Austin, and other lawmakers highlighted the links between the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. Specifically, they mentioned Iran's provision of weapons to Russia for its war efforts. Blinken stated, "Allowing Russia to prevail with Iran's support will embolden both Moscow and Tehran." He further highlighted the need to respond collectively to recognize the unified nature of these conflicts, rather than playing a fragmented game of "whack-a-mole" that strengthens US adversaries.

Drawing parallels between Israel and Ukraine, Blinken emphasized the common struggle faced by both democracies against ruthless foes seeking to annihilate them. He stated, "We will not let Hamas or Putin win. Today's battles against aggression and terrorism will define global security for years to come. And only firm American leadership can ensure that tyrants, thugs, and terrorists worldwide are not emboldened to commit more aggression and more atrocities." Austin echoed this sentiment, underscoring the importance of firm American leadership in the face of growing threats.

As Blinken and Austin advocated for the passage of the aid package, they reiterated the US government's support for Israel's military response while also stressing the expectation that Israel adheres to the laws of war. The funding request includes $14.3 billion in additional military assistance for Israel and $61.4 billion in aid for Ukraine. Additionally, it allocates $9.15 billion for humanitarian aid, $7.4 billion for Taiwan and the Indo-Pacific region, and $13.6 billion for security measures along the US-Mexico border.

In the Senate, leaders from both parties have called for combining funding for Israel, Ukraine, and border security. However, some Republicans, particularly in the House, are opposed to allocating further funds to Ukraine. As a counterproposal, House Republicans, led by Speaker Mike Johnson, unveiled a separate $14.3 billion Israel funding bill that includes funding cuts to the Internal Revenue Service and excludes any aid for Ukraine.

During the Senate hearing, Blinken's opening remarks were interrupted by protesters demanding an immediate ceasefire. In response, Blinken acknowledged their passion and expressed commitment to protecting civilian lives. He stated, "All of us are committed to the protection of civilian life. All of us know the suffering that is taking place as we speak. All of us are determined to see it end." Blinken emphasized the importance of standing with allies and partners in times of security threats to their democracies.

Drawing from the US's own counterterrorism experiences, Defense Secretary Austin urged caution in Israel's operations against Hamas. He warned that if not done carefully, actions taken in the conflict could generate long-lasting resistance. The aid package also includes over $9 billion in humanitarian assistance for Ukraine, Israel, Gaza, and other urgent needs.

Efforts to provide aid to civilians in Gaza have been limited, with only a small number of trucks entering through the Rafah crossing each day. Prior to the war, 500 to 800 trucks were delivering assistance daily. Blinken acknowledged the need for closer monitoring to ensure the intended recipients receive the assistance, as there may be some spillage. However, he underscored that the majority of the assistance is reaching those who need it.

As the crisis in the Middle East intensifies and Ukraine continues its battle, the urgency to pass the national security funding request has become more apparent. Blinken and Austin's argument that the conflicts in Israel and Ukraine are interconnected highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to address these challenges and prevent any further emboldening of US adversaries. The decision of lawmakers regarding this funding request will undoubtedly shape global security in the years to come.

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