In a nationally broadcast speech, US President Joe Biden emphasized the importance of support for Ukraine and Israel, stressing that these commitments are essential to US security amid two important and complex conflicts.
From the Oval Office, the president emphasized that although these conflicts may seem distant, they remain critical to his country’s national security. Because of this, he announced his plans to ask Congress for billions of dollars in military aid to both countries.
“History has taught us that when terrorists and dictators don’t have consequences for their actions, it leads to more chaos, death and destruction,” Biden declared. He emphasized that these threats cannot be allowed to grow, and that the United States and the world face increasing costs.
Biden’s broad approach to US commitments abroad comes as he faces political opposition at home over more funding. The president plans to ask Congress for $105 billion, with $60 billion going to Ukraine, much of which will replenish stockpiles of previously supplied US weapons.
In addition, the proposal includes $14 billion for Israel, $10 billion for unspecified humanitarian efforts, $14 billion for managing the US-Mexico border and combating fentanyl trafficking, and $7 billion for the Indus region. .-Pacific, which includes Taiwan.
Biden justified this investment by stating that it would benefit American security for generations.
This comprehensive approach seeks to create a coalition necessary for the approval of the proposal in Congress. Biden’s speech comes after his recent trip to Israel, where he expressed solidarity with the country after the attack carried out by Hamas on October 7 and pushed for more humanitarian support for the Palestinians.
Despite the ongoing violence in the Gaza Strip and Israel’s preparations for a possible ground invasion, Biden emphasized the dire impact of the conflict on the civilian population. The president expressed his sadness at the loss of Palestinian lives and stressed the importance of Israelis and Palestinians living in security, dignity and peace.
Biden also warned about the rising tide of anti-Semitism and Islamophobia in the United States and condemned the killing of Wadea Alfayoumi, a 6-year-old Palestinian-American boy.
The White House reported that, after his speech, the president and first lady, Jill Biden, expressed their condolences to Wadea’s family.
The president also issued a warning to Iran’s leaders, who have provided support for Hamas in Gaza and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. Biden affirmed that the United States will continue to demand accountability.
Despite these ambitious plans, Biden faces many challenges as he seeks to secure funding. The House of Representatives remains in limbo due to the Republican majority’s inability to elect a new speaker, making legislation difficult.
In addition, there are divisions in the Senate on the approval of military aid to Ukraine and Israel. Some senators are against combining these two commitments in the same law, arguing that they are separate conflicts.
