In a decisive move, the House of Representatives has passed the Israel Security Assistance Support Act, calling for the swift delivery of US weapons to Israel amidst its ongoing war with Hamas in the Gaza Strip. The bill, introduced by Rep. Ken Calvert (R-Calif.), received support from 208 Republicans and 16 Democrats, with opposition from 184 Democrats and three Republicans.

The legislation not only demands the expedited shipment of weapons but also includes provisions to defund Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, Secretary of State Antony Blinken, and President Biden's National Security Council until the deliveries are completed. However, the White House has already announced its intention to veto the bill, citing concerns that it would hinder effective foreign policy and asserting that it misrepresents the temporary pause on one shipment, which some Republicans had labeled as an "arms embargo."

House Speaker Mike Johnson, expressing his discontent with President Biden's stance, stated, "It is clear that Biden and Schumer have turned their back on Israel. They are carrying water for Iran and its proxies." Johnson (R-La.) further emphasized the need for the United States to support Israel in their efforts to combat the acts of terror perpetrated by Hamas.

Despite being whipped against the legislation by their leadership, a significant number of House Democrats joined Republicans in expressing alarm over the temporary pause of the delivery of 2,000-pound bombs to Israel. President Biden had made it clear in a CNN interview that these weapons would not be supplied if the Israeli military targeted Rafah, considered the last stronghold of Hamas in Gaza.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu blatantly disregarded the administration's threat, affirming that the military operation to destroy Hamas' underground terror tunnels would continue. Meanwhile, National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan explained that the pause on bomb shipments to densely populated areas like Rafah was due to concerns for civilian safety.

The controversy surrounding the temporary pause led Republican Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) to introduce articles of impeachment against President Biden, accusing him of an illegal abuse of power for leveraging military aid for policy changes. Several Democrats also criticized the administration, highlighting the significance of continuing weapons shipments in order to deter mutual enemies such as Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iranian-backed proxies.

Amidst the furore, it was revealed that the Biden administration plans to deliver over $1 billion worth of other weapons to Israel during the pause. This includes $700 million worth of tank ammunition, $500 million in tactical vehicles, and $60 million in mortar rounds.

Critics argue that the temporary pause in weapon shipments contradicts President Biden's promise to provide unwavering support to Israel. Simcha D. Rothman, a member of Israel's parliament, expressed disappointment, stating that it not only breaks a commitment but also sends the wrong message to both Israel's enemies and the world.

In a show of dissent, Democratic aides opposed to US military aid for Israel staged a protest outside the Capitol during the vote, holding a sign urging the saving of Rafah.

As tensions in the region continue to escalate, the fate of the legislation and the delivery of US weapons to Israel remain uncertain, highlighting the complex dynamics at play in US-Israel relations amidst the ongoing conflict with Hamas.