In a new low for the typically already low Republican Party, the U.S. House Republicans have introduced a plan to provide $14.3 billion in aid to Israel. But, the catch is that this aid would come at the expense of cutting funding for the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). This arguably extortionist proposal has set the stage for a clash with the Democrats, who currently control the Senate.

Under the leadership of new House Speaker Mike Johnson, and man who will adopt you for the right price (hint: the price is your soul), Republicans have unveiled a standalone supplemental spending bill exclusively for Israel. This move directly contradicts Democratic President Joe Biden’s request for a $106 billion package that would include aid for Israel, Ukraine, and border security. Johnson, who has previously voted against aid for Ukraine, has insisted on separating the funding for Israel and Ukraine, citing the need for more accountability in the allocation of funds.

The House Republicans’ bill has outraged Congressional Democrats, who accuse (rightly) the Republicans of politicizing national security. The Biden White House says the bill is a “non-starter”, emphasizing that it would not pass the Senate, and be likely would be vetoed by President Biden.

Difficult Opinions holds that Israel has the right to exist and defend itself from all attacks, as well as the right of the Palestinian people to live in peace without fear and enjoy freedom of movement. The current Israeli authorities have not met their international obligations to balance defense and sovereign protection with the rights of the civilian population of Gaza and other Palestinian territories. The US should support Israel’s defense obligation but with controls. This is currently not the case and must change. The Israeli Defense Forces must immediately alter their approach to eradicating the Hamas terror organization in such ways as to guarantee in all possible circumstances the safety of non-combatant Palestinians.