Baghdad: The US House of Representatives has passed the National Defense Authorization Act for fiscal year 2027, approving a historic budget of $1.15 trillion for the US military. The bill secured 216 votes in favor and faced 212 votes against it.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the bill has caused significant divisions within Congress. The majority of Republicans supported the bill, with only seven dissenting, while nearly all Democrats opposed it, with six breaking ranks. Democrats expressed concerns over the substantial defense spending, especially in light of reductions in social program budgets. They also criticized the ongoing US military operations against Iran, which have reportedly cost $37.5 billion to date.

Republicans defended the budget as crucial for supporting the armed forces, enhancing defense systems, and acquiring military equipment. The bill also includes provisions for improving military personnel’s conditions, such as salary increases of up to seven percent and constructing new barracks and housing for military families.

The bill will now proceed to the Senate for further consideration before possibly being presented to US President Donald Trump for his approval to become law.