The US Congress passed last week a $741 billion National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the 2021 fiscal year, and it includes the continuation of American assistance to Israel for missile-defense programs and other initiatives.
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The Pentagon blueprint passed the US House of Representatives by a vote of 335-78, while the Senate passed it by a tally of 84-13.
The NDAA allocates $500 million towards missile-defense systems in Israel, such as the Iron Dome, David's Sling, and Arrow 3. Additionally, it extends authorization for the US War Reserve Stockpile in Israel through the 2025 fiscal year and authorizes an additional $200 million annually in stocks.
The NDAA also lifts current limitations on the transfer of precision-guided munitions to Israel in an emergency and authorizes the president to exceed the current limitation of $200 million on the transfer of PGMs in a non-emergency setting under certain conditions. Moreover, it authorizes the secretary of defense to establish a directed energy program with Israel.
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee and Christians United for Israel applauded the passage of the NDAA as it pertains to US assistance to Israel.
In a statement, AIPAC commended Congress "for including significant pro-Israel provisions" that "will help Israel protect itself against continuing security threats."
"It is refreshing to see Congress set aside its partisan differences to advance this vital legislation. We strongly support this bill being signed into law," Sandra Parker, chairwoman of CUFI Action Fund, said in a statement.
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However, US President Donald Trump has threatened to veto the NDAA over renaming US military installations commemorating Confederate figures. The tallies of the passage in the House and Senate would be sufficient to get the two-thirds majority needed to override presidential vetos.
Reprinted with permission from JNS.org
