A group of Democratic senators is pressing colleagues to delay approval of the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA) until the Senate holds a debate on proposals aimed at expanding military and intelligence cooperation with Israel. The initiative, spearheaded by Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, reflects growing divisions within the Democratic Party over support for Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.

In a letter circulated among Senate Democrats, the group expressed concern about advancing the NDAA, which is currently being drafted to authorize much of the Trump administration’s $1.5 trillion defense budget. The legislation, which has seen versions passed by both House and Senate committees, includes provisions to deepen U.S.-Israel defense ties.

The senators’ letter urged opposition to moving forward with the NDAA until there is a chance to debate measures that would formalize and enhance the security relationship between the two countries. The group described Netanyahu’s government as “extremist” and indicated reluctance to endorse policies that would intensify U.S. involvement.

This development highlights a broader shift within the Democratic Party, where support for Israel has become a contentious issue in the lead-up to the November midterm elections. While traditionally a bipartisan consensus has supported strong U.S.-Israel relations, a growing segment of Democrats is questioning the extent and nature of that support under the current Israeli administration.

The NDAA, a key piece of annual legislation setting defense policy and funding, remains central to U.S. military planning and foreign security partnerships. The House and Senate committees’ versions include language intended to bolster collaboration on defense technology, intelligence sharing, and joint military exercises.

The debate over U.S. policy toward Israel comes as Washington navigates complex Middle East security challenges and an evolving global defense landscape. Lawmakers’ differing perspectives underscore the increasing scrutiny of the United States’ role in regional conflicts and alliances.

At this stage, it remains unclear how the push from Van Hollen and fellow Democrats will affect the final NDAA negotiations. The legislation must be reconciled between the two chambers before reaching the president’s desk, with proponents of the U.S.-Israel cooperation provisions continuing to advocate for their inclusion.