$900B Defense Bill Clears U.S. House, Includes Major Support for Israel

The U.S. House of Representatives overwhelmingly passed the 2026 National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) on Wednesday night in a 312–112 vote, approving over $900 billion in defense spending and including what AIPAC described as “critical pro-Israel provisions.”

Eighteen Republicans and ninety-four Democrats opposed the legislation, which now heads to the Senate.

The bill authorizes $500 million for U.S.-Israel missile defense cooperation in fiscal year 2026. This includes funding for Israeli procurement of Iron Dome, David’s Sling, and Arrow systems, as well as joint research, development, testing, and evaluation.

AIPAC highlighted additional provisions:

• $80 million for joint U.S.-Israel anti-tunnel operations.

• $35 million for bilateral cooperation in artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and emerging technologies.

• $70 million a $15 million increase for counter-drone initiatives.

The legislation also opens the door for Israel to be added to the U.S. National Technology and Industrial Base, which would further integrate Israeli defense firms into the American military supply chain.

In a symbolic move, the bill instructs the Pentagon to avoid participating in global defense exhibitions that boycott Israel, and requires top U.S. officials to continually assess the effects of international arms embargoes on Israel.

“Funding our military, ensuring our warfighters are ready to win against any adversary, and taking care of our service members are some of Congress’s core duties,” said Rep. Michael McCaul (R-Texas), praising the legislation as part of the administration’s “peace through strength” agenda.

The Senate is expected to begin debate on the bill next week. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for updates.