US lawmakers approve $95 billion war funding

Washington – Agencies: The U.S. House of Representatives approved a budget framework worth $95 billion, with most of the funds allocated to the Pentagon to finance the war against Iran. The framework was approved by a narrow margin (216 votes in favor, 214 against) and will now be sent to the Senate, where it remains unclear whether it will be ratified. The budget framework stipulates that $73 billion be allocated to the armed forces and intelligence agencies, particularly to fund operations related to the war against Iran, and $12 billion as aid to farmers affected by the trade war waged by President Donald Trump. Additionally, $10 billion will be earmarked for election-related programs as part of Trump’s efforts to impose new voting restrictions nationwide, while the broader “America Rescue” bill lacks sufficient support to move forward. The proposed budget represents the last major legislative move by Republicans ahead of the midterm elections scheduled for November, the results of which will determine whether they retain their majority in Congress, thereby shaping the course of the remainder of Trump’s second term. Also on Wednesday, the House approved the annual National Defense Authorization Act, which authorizes a record budget of $1.15 trillion for the Pentagon.