Washington, July 23 (SANA) The U.S. House of Representatives narrowly approved a record defense spending bill on Thursday, authorizing $1.15 trillion in military funding after a 216-212 vote.
The National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) was backed largely by Republicans, while most Democrats opposed the measure, citing concerns over the record allocation for the Pentagon and broader cuts to domestic programs pursued by President Donald Trump’s administration.
Democrats also criticized the bill amid growing opposition to the ongoing U.S. military campaign against Iran, which the Pentagon estimates has cost about $37.5 billion in direct expenses so far.
Republicans defended the spending package, saying the additional funds are needed to support military operations against Iran, upgrade defense systems, purchase weapons and equipment, increase service members’ salaries by 7%, and improve military housing.
The bill also drew Democratic criticism over a provision expanding military and technological cooperation between the United States and Israel, as debate continues in the U.S. over military support for Israel amid its offensive in Gaza.
The House vote is the first step in the legislative process. The Senate will now consider its own version of the bill before both chambers reconcile differences and send a final version to President Donald Trump for approval.
N.J/ABD
