The move comes as a result of the rejection of an amendment proposed by Reps. Rashida Tlaib of Michigan and Cori Bush of Missouri, which sought to withhold aid to Israel unless Hamas released its hostages and a lasting cease-fire was implemented.

The House Rules Committee declined to consider the amendment put forth by Tlaib and Bush, ultimately leading to the bill's passage. The failed amendment called for an end to hostilities between Israel and Hamas, the release of hostages held by Hamas, as well as the release of "arbitrarily detained Palestinians" by Israel. The amendment also emphasized the need for diplomacy to secure self-determination for both Palestinians and Israelis.

However, Hamas has repeatedly rejected calls for a cease-fire that includes the release of the hostages it has held captive since October 7. Despite the amendment's failure, Rep. Cori Bush criticized the passage of the foreign aid bill during an anti-Israel rally on Capitol Hill, describing it as a "death warrant" for Palestinians. She accused those supporting the bill of undervaluing Palestinian lives compared to Israeli lives.

Progressive Democrats have urged the Biden administration to halt aid to Israel, citing concerns about the ongoing fighting in Gaza and the unfolding humanitarian crisis. Rep. Bush went as far as to accuse Congress of fueling genocide rather than saving Palestinian lives. Rep. Tlaib, who has Palestinian roots, has long been a vocal critic of Israel.

On the other hand, Republicans have largely stood united in their support for Israel and Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Many critics have accused the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) of committing genocide during their operations against Hamas fighters in Gaza. However, Israeli and U.S. leaders have firmly pushed back against these claims.

The passage of the foreign aid bill signifies the majority view of House lawmakers, who have prioritized assistance to Israel and humanitarian aid for the Gaza Strip. Despite the failed amendment's intentions, the bill's approval demonstrates the continued support for maintaining strong ties with Israel while addressing the humanitarian crisis in the region.

It remains to be seen how the debate surrounding aid to Israel and the ongoing conflict in Gaza will develop in the coming weeks, but for now, the focus lies on providing support to the affected areas and working towards a lasting resolution that ensures the safety and self-determination of both Palestinians and Israelis.