U.S. legislators have approved a version of the expansive defense spending policy bill. This bill outlines next year’s financial resources and objectives for the Pentagon. Some Democrats express concerns, fearing it may strengthen certain U.S. ties with Israel.
On Wednesday, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) for the 2027 fiscal year with a narrow margin of 216 to 212 votes. The bill authorizes over $1 trillion in military expenditure, reinforcing the U.S. position as the world’s leading defense spender. This approval follows a statement by Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, who noted that the U.S.’s conflict with Iran has incurred a cost of $37.5 billion since February 28.
The bill has drawn attention to the U.S. relationship with Israel. The traditionally strong support for U.S.-Israel relations is facing scrutiny due to growing concerns over the humanitarian impact of Israel’s actions in Gaza.
“Israel has denied allegations of committing genocide against Palestinians in Gaza. The accusation follows Israel’s invasion in response to attacks by Hamas on October 7, 2023.”
Several Democrats, such as Maryland Senator Chris Van Hollen, have advocated for blocking the NDAA. They seek to examine the terms of U.S.-Israeli collaboration more closely. New York Representative Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez expressed concerns that the NDAA could “merge parts of our military with the IDF [Israel Defense Forces]” posing risks to American sovereignty and democracy.
Democrat Representative Ro Khanna and Republican Representative Thomas Massie have stated their opposition to military integration with Israel. Massie previously suggested halting over $3 billion in U.S. aid to Israel, intended for the Israeli military. However, this proposal was rejected in a House vote.
The American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) supports the provision for cooperation, deeming it crucial for both nations to address new threats. This includes advancements in air defenses and counter-drone systems.
“The provision strengthens our partnership with Israel to offer American troops a strategic advantage and modernizes our military using cutting-edge technology,” AIPAC emphasized in June.
Reports show that Israel achieved record weapons sales in 2025, doubling over the past five years. Various countries are acquiring military equipment tested in combat conditions despite criticism of the Gaza conflict.
Understanding NDAA’s Provisions
One aspect of the bill, Section 219, outlines collaboration with Israel. It involves appointing a coordinator within the Pentagon to “expand and accelerate” technology development with Israel. This role includes determining which technologies Israel has developed or jointly worked on with the U.S. that could benefit the U.S. military.
Section 219 identifies key areas for cooperation:
- Drone threats, including aerial and seaborne unmanned systems
- Anti-tunneling and underground threats
- Air defense advancements
- Artificial intelligence and quantum computing
- Advanced sensors and directed energy
- Electronic warfare and cyber capabilities
- Medical programs and biotechnology
- Data fusion and networking
- Defense industry enhancements
- Other emerging technologies
A provision in Section 219 also specifies joint training exercises and information sharing between the U.S. and Israeli militaries, fostering collaboration on jointly developed technologies.
Defense Secretary Hegseth must report to Congress within 180 days on the progress of U.S.-Israeli cooperation. An annual report will be required until 2030, detailing how these collaborations have enhanced U.S. national security. Portions of these reports will be made public, with certain information withheld if classified.
Clarifications on the NDAA
Section 219 does not establish a new joint military force. It does not mandate placing U.S. troops under Israeli command or vice versa. There is no language obligating the U.S. to engage in warfare for Israel’s interests, nor is Israel required to do so for the U.S.
Next Steps
The approved bill will be forwarded to the Senate. Ultimately, it will arrive on President Donald Trump’s desk for final approval.
For more details, contact Newsweek editors, Alfred Joyner and Tony Phillips.