House Passes $1.15 Trillion Defense Bill Including Iran War Funding

House Passes Defense Package

The bill’s passage marks a notable departure from the traditionally bipartisan nature of the annual NDAA process. Republican leadership incorporated several contentious measures into the package, including the SAVE America Act, an elections overhaul bill that has faced resistance in the Senate. Speaker Mike Johnson stated that the legislation is essential for safeguarding national security, asserting that providing for the common defense is a fundamental responsibility of Congress.

Iran War and Military Policy

A primary point of contention during the debate was the ongoing war against Iran, which was launched by the U.S. and Israel in late February. Democratic lawmakers expressed strong opposition to the bill, describing it as a permission slip for the administration’s military actions. Critics argued that Congress is failing to restrain the executive branch’s expansive use of force, with some labeling the conflict as out of control.

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The legislation includes provisions to help cover the rising costs associated with the war. Additionally, the bill features a section—Section 219—that would establish the United States-Israel Defense Technology Cooperation Initiative. This provision has drawn sharp criticism from some lawmakers, including Rep. Thomas Massie (R-Ky.), who argued that the measure merges U.S. military supply chains with Israel’s in a way that he characterizes as a betrayal of sovereignty, according to Al Jazeera.

Pentagon Rebranding and Provisions

The House-passed bill would officially codify President Trump’s executive order from last year to rename the Department of Defense as the Department of War. The Congressional Budget Office has projected that this change could cost taxpayers up to $125 million. While the White House has expressed support for the designation, it has signaled concerns regarding other sections of the bill, specifically those that might limit the president’s authority over military installations and property.

The legislation also includes several benefits for service members, including: * A pay raise ranging from 5% to 7%, determined by rank. * Approximately $1.8 billion allocated for military barracks and family housing. * Authorizations totaling around $56 billion for aircraft development, specifically citing B-21 Raiders and F-35 fighter jets.

Legislative Path Forward

The NDAA now faces an uncertain future in the Senate. Senate Democrats previously blocked debate on the measure, citing concerns over the high cost of the bill at a time when the administration is simultaneously moving to reduce access to social programs.

Rep. Mike Rogers (R-Ala.), chairman of the House Armed Services Committee, acknowledged the disagreements but emphasized that the Wednesday vote is a necessary step in a long legislative process. He expressed a commitment to working toward a final bipartisan product that can pass both chambers. According to Washington Post, officials noted that the spending increases authorized in the House bill will not take effect until Congress passes a separate defense appropriations bill, a process that may not be completed until after the midterm elections.