Beyer backed attempt to end U.S. military aid to Israel, which split House Democrats

U.S. Rep. Don Beyer (D-Va.) supported an amendment to cut $3.3 billion in U.S. military aid to Israel, a move that significantly divided House Democrats. The amendment, proposed by Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), was voted down 104-314, with most Republicans and many Democrats opposing it. Beyer stated that while a military response to the October 7th attacks was justifiable, Israel's subsequent campaigns have "cost the lives of tens of thousands of innocents and isolated Israel on the world stage." House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) opposed the amendment, suggesting "more decisive ways to achieve the urgent change necessary when it comes to the far-right Netanyahu government." The debate highlights a growing rift within the Democratic Party regarding U.S. support for Israel, particularly concerning the conflict's impact on civilians in Gaza, the West Bank, and Lebanon.