Congressman Ivey's Statement in Opposition to H.R.7217

Yesterday, I joined with House Democratic leadership and over one-hundred House Democrats in opposition to H.R. 7217. Although I strongly support Israel’s right to defend itself, I think this legislation needs to be included as part of a larger package as proposed by the Biden Administration and a bipartisan group of Senators.

The relationship between Israel and the United States is a unique and special one.  I unequivocally maintain that Israel has the right to exist as a Jewish, Democratic state and it will always be a crucial ally to our nation. As such, Congress must step up to provide Israel with the critical aid it needs in order to mount a defense against Hamas terrorists in response to the brutal attacks on October 7, 2023. 

But let me be clear, H.R.7217 is not about helping our ally and partner at a time of need. Rather, this bill is a political ploy by MAGA Republicans to undermine bipartisan efforts to make our country and the world safer, and they’re engaging in this deception to please their preferred presidential candidate, Donald Trump.

These reckless political games are impacting global security beyond Israel. It is critical that Congress also continue to support Ukraine as it fights to preserve its democracy against Putin’s unprovoked war of aggression. At this very moment, Ukraine’s sovereignty and security, as well as the security of our NATO allies, hang in the balance.

A bipartisan group of United States Senators, led by conservative Senator James Lankford (R-OK), worked tirelessly with the White House to put forth an emergency supplemental funding package that would provide critical military aid to our ally Israel, as well as provide military aid to Ukraine in its struggle against Russian aggression. It would also provide funds to secure our Southern border, enhance Taiwan’s security, and send necessary humanitarian relief to the people of Gaza and Ukraine.

Instead, House Republicans are playing games with our global and national security. They are choosing to engage in partisan politics rather than allowing the Senate’s important and much-needed bipartisan legislation to get a vote on the House floor.

Because this effort by extreme MAGA Republicans undoes months of bipartisan progress, I look forward to supporting the bipartisan Senate legislation that will enhance Israel’s security in its fight against Hamas, support Ukraine’s fight against Putin, and provide humanitarian aid to Gaza and Ukraine, while also making our nation safer.