US Sends Iron Dome Systems to Israel, Shifts Funds from Gaza Aid

The White House has criticized Republican lawmakers' efforts to redirect aid from Gaza to Israel's Iron Dome, arguing that President Biden's supplemental funding bill for Israel should be supported instead. The GOP senators introduced legislation requiring the transfer of unexpended balances of appropriations from Gaza to Israel for the Iron Dome system. The White House emphasized the need to provide humanitarian necessities to the people of Gaza without benefiting Hamas, while also highlighting Biden's commitment to securing additional funding for Israel's defense. The National Security Council spokesperson reiterated Biden's promise to halt aid if it fell into the hands of Hamas, and stressed that U.S. assistance for Palestinians does not go to or through Hamas. The GOP senators argued that Hamas controls Gaza and could potentially benefit from U.S. assistance, urging Biden to support Israel's efforts against Hamas.