Jeffries opposes Massie bid to cut military aid to Israel, but says 'change in direction is needed'

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries announced he would vote against Republican Rep. Thomas Massie's amendment to cut $3.3 billion in military aid to Israel, but stated that "American policy in the Middle East must change." In a letter to Democratic colleagues, Jeffries called the amendment "overly broad" and detrimental to confronting terrorist organizations. However, he indicated that a "meaningful change in direction is needed" regarding U.S. aid, suggesting that the next memorandum of understanding with Israel, set for 2028, should not include military subsidies, as Israel has an advanced economy capable of self-funding its defense. Jeffries did not instruct other Democrats on how to vote, acknowledging "good faith reasons" for various outcomes. This stance reflects shifting sentiments within the Democratic party regarding aid to Israel, with some progressives supporting Massie's amendment.