Several initiatives were introduced for a vote in Congress on Wednesday meant to block the Biden administration from using taxpayer dollars for future Gaza reconstruction.

One key provision was introduced as an amendment to the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act. It was led by Republican Reps Brian Mast, Claudia Tenney, and Eli Crane – and was subsequently passed by a simple voice vote, though Democrats opposed the amendment. 

Via The Hill

Mast is a well-known pro-Israel hawk who at one point prior to entering Congress even volunteered to serve in the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), though not in a combat capacity.

“They are absolutely at war with one of our major and best allies anywhere across the globe,” said Mast of Palestinians on the House floor before the vote. He asserted that it is “nonsensical” to suggest rebuilding the place that’s been largely destroyed by Israeli and American bombs for much of the past year.

“Any group that takes control of the Gaza Strip following this war will have ties to terrorism and be opposed to the existence of our ally — Israel,” said Congressman Mast further. 

“Given this reality, even one penny of American tax dollars used to build or rebuild infrastructure in Gaza will just be going to subsidize the next attack on Israel. Our tax dollars should be going to support our allies, not terrorist entities holding American citizens hostage,” he added.

Currently there are still 5 American citizens (who hold dual Israeli citizenship) still in Hamas captivity in the Strip (though some may be deceased).

These same Republicans have long complained that Biden’s $300 million humanitarian pier project is also a waste. Due to inclement weather it has actually been out of commission longer than it’s been in operation.

REP MAST INTRODUCED LEGISLATION TO PREVENT AMERICAN FUNDING GAZAN REBUILDING pic.twitter.com/Ih78dT40mB

— The_Real_Fly (@The_Real_Fly) June 13, 2024

Mast in particular has made very controversial remarks, saying previously for example that “there are very few innocent Palestinian citizens.” He and other GOP lawmakers are currently fully trying to shut down the Pentagon pier project, and if Trump gets into office next year, this initiative to halt it is likely to succeed.