Iron Dome funding delayed by Republican senator Rand Paul

Democrat Bob Menendez introduced a unanimous consent resolution to the Senate floor on Monday.

But Republican Rand Paul blocked such efforts. Paul objected by suggesting his own version of the bill, which would require the Iron Dome funding to come from the $6 billion in the proposed US assistance to Afghanistan. 

Menendez, the Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman, rejected Paul's proposal which consequently put the Senate at a standstill on the issue.

Earlier this month, US lawmakers green-lit the legislation of $1 billion to resupply Israel's Iron Dome missile defense system. Unanimous approval of the bill would have fast-tracked its passage. 

"I support Israel; I've voted for hundreds of millions of dollars to support Iron Dome. I'm glad the United States has a strong bond with Israel, but the United States cannot give money it does not have no matter how strong our relationship is," said Paul.

Although the bill is still certain to pass, it now requires a more formal floor vote. Once the bill is approved by the Senate, it will be brought to US President Joe Biden who has already expressed his approval of the funding.

Menendez addressed the Senate following his proposal, “This is a defensive life safety system built on years of cooperation with our ally Israel. I’m disappointed we’re in this situation."

The Iron Dome has destroyed thousands of short-range rockets and shells launched by Hamas militants from Gaza before they were able to hit populated areas, Israeli officials say.