Apr 14, 2024 - Politics & Policy

After Iran attack, Kirby calls for floor vote on Israel-Ukraine aid

Shauneen Miranda

White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby speaking — White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby speaks at a press briefing at the White House on Feb. 27. Photo: Roberto Schmidt/Getty Images

White House National Security Communications Adviser John Kirby on Sunday said Israel and Ukraine funding should be put on the House floor "as soon as possible."

The big picture: The push comes shortly after Iran launched attack drones and missiles against Israel on Saturday night local time in retaliation for an airstrike in Syria that killed a top Iranian general, Axios' Barak Ravid reported.

What he's saying: "We didn't need any reminders in terms of what's going on in Ukraine. But last night certainly underscores significantly the threat that Israel faces in a very, very tough neighborhood," Kirby said on NBC's "Meet the Press" Sunday.

Kirby noted that all the House needs to do "is take it up" and "put it on the floor," telling "Meet the Press" moderator Kristen Welker that "you and I both know the votes are there."
"But we're just looking for leadership out of the speaker's office: get it on the floor, get it voted on so that not only Israel can get additional resources and defend itself — which they clearly need — but that Ukraine can as well," he added.

Catch up quick: The Senate passed the $95 billion foreign aid bill, but it has been stalled for weeks in the House. The bill includes funding for Ukraine, Israel, Taiwan and Palestinian civilians.

Meanwhile, Iran's recent attack has sparked a renewed push by Republican lawmakers to pass a standalone military aid bill to Israel, Axios' Andrew Solender reported.

Go deeper: Iranian attack on Israel reignites Congress' fight over foreign aid

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After Iran attack, Kirby calls for floor vote on Israel-Ukraine aid

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