WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Rep. Kathy Castor (FL-14) released the following statement on passage of House Republicans’ fiscally irresponsible and partisan bill that delays aid to Israel and Ukraine and omits humanitarian assistance:

“In a maneuver that harms America’s national security, House Republicans are stalling swift passage of security assistance to Israel and deserting our allies in Europe and the Indo-Pacific at a time that they need us most. The House GOP’s bill immorally excludes humanitarian aid for innocent Palestinians who are used as human shields by Hamas terrorists.  The GOP bill also appallingly attempts to shield rich tax cheats and increases the federal deficit.

“Republican chaos in the House, default and shutdown threats, and wasteful, partisan bills are all a result of the far right MAGA extremists who careen from crisis to crisis.  It’s irresponsible, and it’s dangerous.

“Meanwhile, House Democrats and the U.S. Senate are ready to move forward on bipartisan legislation to help our allies defend themselves and prevent a humanitarian crisis in partnership with President Biden.  Defense aid to Israel has always been bipartisan, and the GOP shouldn’t let MAGA extremists break that bond.”

“Denying humanitarian assistance to millions of innocent civilians in Gaza and across the region would undermine Israel’s security and stability in the region.  It is in America’s national security interest to ensure that the conflict does not widen as Israel defends itself after the barbaric terrorist attack. America can and should help our democratic allies defend themselves and rally other nations to support the humanitarian response."