Biden Urges Congress for $100 Billion to Counter Parallel Threats to Democracy

In a significant Oval Office address, President Joe Biden called on the American people to support a $100 billion funding request for Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan, and border security, emphasizing the shared threat posed by Russia and Hamas to American democracy. Biden argued that supporting these nations in their respective struggles against Russia and militant groups is crucial for national security.

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In a significant Oval Office address, President Joe Biden called on the American people to support a $100 billion funding request for Israel, Ukraine, Taiwan, and border security, emphasizing the shared threat posed by Russia and Hamas to American democracy. Biden argued that supporting these nations in their respective struggles against Russia and militant groups is crucial for national security.

Biden acknowledged the perception that these conflicts might seem distant but stressed that both Hamas and Putin share the common goal of undermining neighbouring democracies. He highlighted the lessons of history, warning that when terrorists and dictators go unpunished, they cause chaos and destruction.

The President announced an urgent budget request to fund national security, including over $60 billion for Ukraine and more than $10 billion to enhance Israeli defences. Additional funding was allocated for humanitarian aid, addressing the situation in Gaza and bolstering U.S. border security measures. The package also includes support for the Indo-Pacific region, strengthening alliances like Taiwan.

However, passing these funding requests in Congress poses challenges. Last month, a $24 billion Ukraine aid package failed to gain approval due to opposition from ultraconservative Republicans. While there is bipartisan support for financing Israel's needs, public opinion on supporting Ukraine has fluctuated since the conflict began.

Complicating matters, the House has been without a Speaker, unable to act on legislation, as Republicans struggle to agree on a replacement. Biden appealed for unity, urging the nation not to let partisan politics obstruct their responsibilities.

Biden also emphasized the importance of American involvement in global affairs, countering the isolationist policies of his predecessor. He portrayed additional funding as a wise investment in American security.

The President's address followed his visit to Israel, during which he promised "an unprecedented support package for Israel's defence." He pledged to supply the Iron Dome air defence system with necessary ammunition and dispatched warships to the eastern Mediterranean to deter potential actors like Hezbollah.

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Returning from Israel, Biden secured an agreement on humanitarian aid, potentially appeasing critics of Israel's government. He cautioned Israel against acting out of rage, drawing parallels to past U.S. mistakes after the 9/11 attacks.

Furthermore, Biden addressed concerns about rising hate crimes, particularly against Jewish and Muslim Americans. He denounced antisemitism and homophobia unequivocally, emphasizing the need for unity against such bigotry.