The Republican-majority House of Representatives has voted to push President Joe Biden to end his suspension of high-payload bomb shipments to Israel, a move that reflects sharp partisan divides over U.S. policy in the Middle East. Despite its passage in the House by a vote of 224 to 187, with 16 Democrats joining Republicans, the Israel Security Assistance Support Act faces certain death in the Democratic-controlled Senate and a promised veto from Biden.

This legislative effort comes in response to Biden's decision to halt the delivery of 3,500 bombs to Israel, amid concerns about their use in Gaza, where Israeli forces are conducting operations in the densely populated city of Rafah. The president's suspension reflects fears of mass civilian casualties and a broader humanitarian crisis.

Republican lawmakers argue that Biden is undermining Israel's ability to defend itself and is inadvertently aiding Hamas by restricting military aid. House Speaker Mike Johnson criticized Biden for failing to act decisively against Iran, which he accused of supporting attacks on Israel, and for withholding crucial military support during a critical time for Israel.

The ongoing conflict, which erupted after a deadly Hamas attack on October 7, has resulted in significant casualties on both sides. According to Israeli official figures and the Hamas-run health ministry in Gaza, the violence has claimed over 1,170 Israeli lives and at least 35,233 Palestinian lives, mostly civilians.

Secretary of State Antony Blinken has expressed concerns that Israel's actions in Gaza could lead to a prolonged insurgency or a power vacuum that might eventually be filled by Hamas once again. The White House has been vocal in its frustration with the rising civilian death toll and the humanitarian impact of Israel's military actions.

In contrast, the Biden administration recently approved a $1 billion arms package for Israel, including tank and mortar ammunition, providing political cover for pro-Israel Democrats who oppose the House bill. Democratic leaders have condemned the bill as a partisan attempt to undermine the president's authority in foreign policy matters.

The political clash over U.S. military aid to Israel highlights the deepening divide in Washington over how best to support Israel while addressing humanitarian concerns in Gaza.

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