Special to WorldTribune.com

WASHINGTON — The House of Representatives has defeated an attempt to slash U.S. military aid to Egypt.

A House panel voted overwhelmingly against an amendment that would have reduced U.S. military aid to Egypt by $300 million. On June 24, the amendment by Rep. Adam Schiff was opposed by both Democrats and Republicans on the House State and Foreign Operations subcommittee.

“The aid we provide for the military also provides for Israel’s security,” subcommittee chairwoman Rep. Kay Granger said.

Congressional sources said the amendment was defeated by pressure from
the White House as well as the American-Israel Political Action Committee.
They said subcommittee members were warned that a cut in U.S. aid to Egypt
would disrupt security operations along its border with Israel.

“Do I have to remind you that this new, struggling government in Egypt
has closed down over 1,000 tunnels that were used to funnel arms to the
enemies of Israel and the enemies of the United States?” Rep. Mario
Diaz-Balart said.

The Senate has also been considering efforts to cut up to $400 million
in aid to Egypt. The administration of President Barack Obama has asked
Congress to allocate $1.3 billion in military assistance and $255 million in
civilian aid for Cairo.

“Our country cannot and will not be indifferent to gross violations of
human rights and democratic values,” Rep. David Price, who supported
Schiff’s amendment, said.

  House State and Foreign Operations subcommittee, Rep. Adam Schiff, Rep. Kay Granger, U.S. House defeats bid to cut $300 million from Egypt aid allotment