Hours after presenting a nationwide address from the Oval Office, the U.S. president formally asked Congress for a new budget package. The request includes a package of foreign aid, with 61.4 billion dollars allocated for Ukraine, 10.6 billion for Israel and other allied nations, and additional funds for diplomatic and humanitarian needs tied to ongoing conflicts. A separate line item provides 3.7 billion to strengthen embassy protections in the United States, plus 9.15 billion for humanitarian relief related to these crises.
“These conflicts may seem distant, but their outcome matters to American security,” the president stated during the press briefing. The same message was echoed by the national security adviser, reinforcing the administration’s stance on defending democracy and combating terrorism and oppression.
The total request sums to roughly 106 billion dollars. It also includes 14.45 billion for border security at the Mexican frontier, 3.4 billion to bolster the U.S. submarine industrial base, 2 billion to support Indo-Pacific initiatives, and another 2 billion aimed at aiding developing nations and countering challenges from major competitors.
paralysis of congress
The formal submission was conveyed in a letter to the Speaker pro tempore of the House, but debate on the proposal cannot proceed until leadership is settled. The House is currently paralyzed as factions struggle to agree on a speaker. A third vote this morning for a candidate, supported by former President Trump, has encountered stiff resistance from moderates who question the path forward, suggesting that the nominee may face significant opposition within the party.
Even if House activity resumes, there is no guarantee the Biden plan will advance. While Republicans largely unite behind Israel aid, it remains unclear whether they will back a package that includes Ukraine assistance as well, alongside conservative priorities like border control. In the end, the package would also need to bridge gaps related to broader spending priorities and a measure to prevent a government shutdown. The draft legislation extends a funding mechanism that would otherwise expire in mid-November, and it has found support from only a portion of Republicans, with some opposition to providing aid to Ukraine.
Humanitarian concern for Gaza
Public sentiment within the Democratic ranks is warming to concerns about the humanitarian consequences of the Gaza operation. Critics point to the impact of Israel’s siege on civilians in Gaza following the October 7 attacks, arguing that more attention should be given to civilian protection and relief. A recent CBS/YouGov poll captured public opinion: a majority of Democrats and independents favored increasing humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza, while a sizable portion preferred limiting weapons and munitions to Israel.
Poll data summarized: among Democrats, a majority opposed sending weapons and supplies to Israel, while a plurality favored directing humanitarian aid to Gaza. Independents showed a similar split, highlighting a broader debate within the political landscape about the best path forward in the region.
In describing the administration’s stance, the national security team stressed that weapons transfers must comply with the laws of armed conflict. The president’s public and private expectations have been made clear to the Israeli government, reaffirming the country’s need for security while underscoring humanitarian considerations and international law.
As the situation unfolds, lawmakers and policy analysts are weighing how to balance immediate security needs with long-term regional stability, ensuring that aid is delivered in ways that support peace and civilian protection. The administration emphasizes accountability and adherence to lawful frameworks, aiming to align strategic objectives with the humanitarian imperatives felt across affected communities and among international partners.