Congressional leaders are grappling with the question of how to pass additional funding for Israel in the aftermath of Iran's retaliatory strikes. House Speaker Mike Johnson has confirmed his intention to hold a vote on additional aid, but the specifics of his plans remain uncertain as he navigates a delicate balancing act. Conservative members are cautioning against including Ukraine funding in the aid package, further complicating the situation.

In an interview with Fox News, Speaker Johnson emphasized the Republicans' commitment to standing with Israel and expressed his determination to push forward with an aid package this week. However, the inclusion of Ukraine funding is fostering disagreement within his party. Representative Warren Davidson took to social media to warn against attaching Ukraine funding to any aid package, arguing that neither Iran's actions nor Israel's warranted such a move.

At the same time, leaders from both parties are urging action on the Senate-passed foreign aid package that includes funding for Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer has called on Speaker Johnson to take up this package, asserting that it would be the fastest way to provide aid to Israel. However, House conservatives have opposed sending additional aid to Ukraine and are seeking tougher immigration policies in any aid package.

Speaker Johnson is facing a complex decision-making process. Previously, the House struggled to pass a standalone aid bill for Israel, and now Johnson risks conservative backlash if he ties it to Ukraine or opts for the Senate bill. As part of his efforts, he has been seeking former President Donald Trump's support for a more Republican-friendly Ukraine aid package, potentially structuring the aid as a loan.

Meanwhile, President Joe Biden has engaged in discussions with the top congressional leaders about the Middle East situation. Senator Schumer, speaking at a news conference, reiterated his call for Speaker Johnson to prioritize the Senate-passed aid package, emphasizing the importance of swift action in light of the Iranian attacks.

While the House has not yet voted on the Senate-passed legislation, individual members from both parties have voiced their opinions on the matter. Democrats are urging Speaker Johnson to bring up the Senate foreign aid package, while some Republicans are pushing for a separate aid bill exclusively for Israel. Senator Marco Rubio suggested that the Senate could pass standalone aid for Israel, confident that the House would approve it.

With time being of the essence, Senator Chris Coons called on Speaker Johnson to bring the Senate-passed foreign aid package to the floor immediately, underlining the need for swift action as a deterrent against future threats.

The situation remains uncertain as different factions within Congress grapple with conflicting interests and pressures. However, given the recent attacks on Israel, there is a growing sense of urgency for bipartisan consensus on providing aid and support to the country.