A Republican member of the House Appropriations Committee stated today, Saturday, that the committee has drafted a proposal to provide military aid to Israel amounting to $17.6 billion. House Speaker Mike Johnson mentioned in a message to members that "the entire House may vote this week on the funding bill proposed by the House Appropriations Committee." The Republican-controlled House had previously approved new military aid for Israel worth $14.3 billion, but with the condition that it be funded by cutting a significant portion of the funds previously allocated to the Internal Revenue Service. The Democrat-controlled Senate rejected this condition and is expected to unveil a legislative package that will help Israel, in addition to providing more military assistance to Ukraine in its war against Russia. The package is also expected to include proposals to enhance security at the southern U.S. border with Mexico. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer is taking steps to initiate discussion on this comprehensive bill this week, with the first procedural vote expected by Wednesday at the latest.