The US House of Representatives today passed a record 1.15 trillion US dollars defence policy bill that includes a plan to strengthen military integration between the United States and Israel.
The National Defense Authorisation Act (NDAA) for fiscal year 2027 was approved by a narrow 216-212 vote, with the exception of six Democrats who voted in favour and seven Republicans who opposed it. The legislation will now move to the Senate for further approval.
Republicans said the legislation would support troops, strengthen nuclear deterrence and improve missile defence capabilities.
A key provision in the NDAA calls for greater cooperation between the Pentagon and the Israeli armed forces, a move that has sparked debate among lawmakers.
The bill also authorises around 250 billion US dollars more in defence spending than the previous year’s package and includes a proposed 5-7 per cent pay rise for US service members.
The NDAA also includes other controversial measures, including a voting-related provision pushed by Trump’s allies, adding to concerns among Democrats.