US House Shows Solidarity with Israel Under New Speaker, Condemning Hamas Attack

Newly elected Speaker of the House, Mike Johnson, called up a resolution supporting Israel as his first action in office, after a three-week leadership vacuum. The House backed the resolution by a large majority, reaffirming the US commitment to Israel and calling on Hamas to cease attacks and release hostages. However, some Democrats opposed the resolution for not addressing the loss of Palestinian lives. Johnson's elevation as speaker complicates the prospects for a $106 billion funding package requested by President Joe Biden, which includes aid for Ukraine. Johnson has been an opponent of Ukraine aid in the past but expressed support with conditions. The Middle East crisis continues, with Hamas militants attacking Israel and Israeli retaliatory strikes resulting in casualties.