Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken testified before the Senate Appropriations Committee, urging lawmakers to pass the Biden administration's $105 billion national security funding request, which includes significant aid to Israel and Ukraine. They argued that the conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine are interconnected, and failing to provide aid to both countries together would embolden U.S. adversaries worldwide. Blinken and Austin highlighted the links between the conflicts and emphasized the importance of a united response.

They warned that allowing Russia, with Iran's support, to prevail would strengthen both Moscow and Tehran. Blinken stated that for adversaries, this is all one fight and peeling off pieces of the aid package would send a signal that the U.S. is playing whack-a-mole, while its adversaries cooperate and pose a greater threat.

The aid package includes over $14 billion in additional military assistance for Israel. Blinken and Austin reiterated their support for Israel's military response but also stressed the importance of adhering to the laws of war. The hearings underscore the urgency of providing aid to Israel and Ukraine as they face ongoing conflicts and escalating tensions.