WASHINGTON (AP) - In a rebuke to President Joe Biden, the House passed legislation seeking to force the transfer of a shipment of bombs to Israel that had been put on hold by the administration. The move comes as Republicans aim to highlight Democratic divisions over the Israel-Hamas war.

The Biden administration had paused a weapons shipment of 3,500 bombs, including some as large as 2,000 pounds, capable of causing significant damage in populated areas. The decision was made in an effort to discourage Israel from its offensive in the southern Gaza city of Rafah. However, Republicans expressed their outrage, accusing Biden of abandoning a key U.S. ally in the Middle East.

The bill, which was swiftly brought to the House floor by GOP leadership, showcased the deep rift among lawmakers regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. The White House and Democratic leadership worked to rally support from a House caucus that ranges from moderates frustrated by any perceived distancing between the U.S. and Israel to progressives who objected to the continued provision of any weapons.

Despite these divisions, the bill comfortably passed with a vote of 224-187, as 16 Democrats joined most Republicans in voting in favor. Three Republicans voted against the bill.

Republicans argued that Biden should not interfere with how Israel utilizes U.S.-manufactured weapons, which are crucial in its fight against Hamas. The administration's decision to move forward with a new $1 billion sale of tank ammunition, tactical vehicles, and mortar rounds to Israel did not appease these concerns.

The House bill condemns Biden for initiating the pause on the bomb shipment and proposes withholding funding for the State Department, Department of Defense, and National Security Council until the delivery is made. However, the White House has stated that Biden would veto the bill if it passes Congress, and the Democratic-led Senate is expected to reject it.

In a news conference, House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Biden for refusing to support Israel. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed doubts about the bill's potential to progress, stating, "It's not going anywhere."

Republicans remained undeterred, using the opportunity to draw attention to the divisions within the Democratic Party regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. Speaker Mike Johnson argued that the passage of the bill in the House would increase pressure on Schumer and Biden.

Biden's decision to put the bomb shipment on hold reflects the widening differences between his administration and the government of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu in their approach to the war.

As the debate continues, it remains to be seen how the issue will be resolved and what impact it may have on U.S.-Israel relations moving forward.