Washington, Oct 20 (Reuters) - President Joe Biden has submitted a funding request of nearly $106 billion to Congress, seeking to secure ambitious plans for Ukraine, Israel, and U.S. border security. However, with a divided Congress and no clear strategy for obtaining the funds, the uncertainty surrounding the budget adds to the challenges faced by the Biden administration.

The urgency for funding arises in the aftermath of President Biden's recent visit to Israel, where he expressed solidarity with the country as it continues to navigate the ongoing conflict with Hamas. Hamas militants had launched an attack that resulted in the deaths of 1,400 people in southern Israel.

President Biden's funding proposal combines allocations for Israel, Ukraine, border security, refugee assistance, measures to counter China, and other national security priorities. By grouping these priorities together, the Democratic president hopes to create a national security spending bill that garners support in the House of Representatives, despite the current chaotic state of affairs in the chamber.

The House, which has been leaderless for 18 days since Republicans gained control last year, has become a battleground for differing opinions on various issues, including the necessity of funding Ukraine's war with Russia. Some Republican lawmakers have expressed skepticism towards providing funds for Ukraine and have even threatened to halt government operations entirely to address chronic U.S. budget deficits and fiscal spending driven by a staggering $31.4 trillion national debt.

Biden's budget director, Shalanda Young, emphasized the importance of the funding requests, stating, "The world is watching and the American people rightly expect their leaders to come together and deliver on these priorities." Young urged Congress to address the funding needs in a comprehensive, bipartisan agreement.

While the White House refrained from interfering in the ongoing speakership battle in Congress, Young emphasized that it is their responsibility to convey the country's critical needs and the stakes involved.

In addition to the funding request currently submitted, the White House plans to submit another request in the coming days to address funding for natural disasters, high-speed internet, child care, and wild-land firefighter pay.

Of the requested funds for the fiscal year 2024, $14.3 billion is allocated for Israel, primarily aimed at bolstering its air and missile defense systems and weapons procurement following the attack by Hamas. The proposal also allocates over $9 billion for humanitarian relief, including assistance for Israel and Gaza, which are facing a deepening humanitarian crisis.

Furthermore, the funding proposal includes $13.6 billion for U.S. border security measures to address the influx of Latin American and Caribbean immigrants, combat the fentanyl trade, and includes $4 billion in military assistance and government financing to counter China's efforts in Asia.

The largest portion of the proposed funding, $61.4 billion, is designated for Ukraine. The allocation includes provisions for replenishing military equipment, economic and security aid, and support for Ukrainian refugees in the United States. President Biden has vowed to support Ukraine indefinitely, as its war with Russia enters its 20th month.

President Volodymyr Zelenskiy of Ukraine expressed gratitude for the unwavering bipartisan support from the United States. He stated, "America's investment in Ukraine's defense will ensure long-term security for all of Europe and the world."

Although a Reuters/Ipsos poll conducted last week revealed that four in 10 respondents favored supporting Israel's position in the ongoing conflict, nearly half believed that America should remain neutral or not be involved. In a separate poll, a similar proportion agreed that the U.S. should provide weapons to Ukraine.

President Biden, in an address to the nation from the Oval Office, emphasized the importance of American leadership and alliances in maintaining global stability and ensuring the security of the United States.

As President Biden's funding request faces an uncertain path through Congress, the urgency to address these critical priorities remains high. The outcome will undoubtedly impact the international landscape and shape the administration's response to ongoing conflicts.