House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) has faced criticism for his decision to send emergency aid to Israel while excluding other countries and proposing cuts to the Internal Revenue Service budget. The proposal includes about $14.3 billion in aid to Israel, but rejects President Biden's call for a $106 billion international aid package that would have included funding for Ukraine. Lawmakers from both parties have found fault with Johnson's approach, with top Senate Republicans urging the inclusion of Ukraine aid in the legislation. The White House and congressional Democrats have also expressed opposition to the proposed cuts to the IRS and called for the inclusion of additional measures proposed by Biden. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and Secretary of State Antony Blinken have emphasized the importance of U.S. aid to Israel and Ukraine during a Senate hearing, stating that U.S. support is crucial in fighting off threats from Hamas and Russia. The legislation is set to be passed through the House on Friday.

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