House Condemns Iran's Attack on Israel, 14 Lawmakers Dissent

The House of Representatives voted overwhelmingly on Tuesday to condemn Iran's attack on Israel over the weekend, with 14 lawmakers dissenting. The bipartisan resolution, led by Reps. Tom Kean (R-NJ) and Jared Moskowitz (D-FL), passed 404-14, with most of the opposition coming from far-left Democrats and Republican Rep. Thomas Massie (R-KY).

The resolution condemned the Iranian drone and missile barrage, called on other countries to condemn the attack, praised the multinational effort to intercept the missiles and drones, expressed commitment to additional aid to Israel, and called for full enforcement of sanctions and export controls against Iran. It also noted that American and co-produced defense systems were critical to Israel's defensive effort, demonstrating the importance of the U.S.-Israel security partnership.

The attack on Saturday marked the first time Iran has launched a direct military assault on Israel, firing over 300 missiles and drones. However, most were shot down by Israeli and allied forces. Israel has vowed to retaliate, risking further expanding the shadow war between the two foes into a direct conflict.

Why this matters: The House vote sends a strong message of U.S. support for Israel and condemnation of Iran's actions, which risk escalating tensions in the already volatile Middle East region. The dissent from some progressive Democrats highlights growing divisions within the party over U.S. policy towards Israel and the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

In response to the attack, the U.S. and allies have imposed new sanctions on Iran targeting individuals and entities involved in its drone and missile production, as well as its steel and automotive industries. The Biden administration and other international allies have urged Israel to exercise restraint in its response to avoid a wider war.

House Majority Whip Tom Emmer criticized the Democrats who voted against the resolution, calling them the "pro-terrorist party." The dissenting lawmakers, including Reps. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Jamaal Bowman, and Rashida Tlaib, condemned Iran's attack but expressed concerns that the resolution could contribute to further escalation and violence in the region. They called for de-escalation, a lasting ceasefire, and a focus on protecting civilian lives.

Key Takeaways

• House overwhelmingly condemned Iran's attack on Israel, 404-14 vote.
• Resolution praised Israel's defense, called for more aid and sanctions on Iran.
• Attack marks first direct Iranian military assault on Israel, risking escalation.
• U.S. and allies imposed new sanctions on Iran in response to the attack.
• Dissenting Democrats called for de-escalation and protecting civilian lives.