Greene Proposes ‘Space Laser’ Border Defense Funding

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., has introduced a controversial amendment to the House bill aimed at providing over $26 billion in aid to Israel. The proposed amendment seeks to allocate funds for the development and deployment of what she refers to as “space laser technology” along the U.S. southern border. This technology is widely believed to be a reference to the Iron Beam, a ground-based laser weapon system developed by Israeli defense contractor Rafael Advanced Defense Systems.

Contrary to Greene’s characterization, the Iron Beam is not a “space laser” but rather a ground-based laser system that is controlled and operated from a command center. The system is designed to intercept and neutralize incoming threats such as drones, missiles, and mortars. Unlike the Iron Dome missile defense system, which intercepts short-range rockets, the Iron Beam offers a potentially more cost-effective solution, with firing costs estimated at around $2 per shot compared to the more expensive Iron Dome missiles, which can cost over $50,000 each.

Greene’s proposed amendment has sparked debate, with some questioning the feasibility and necessity of deploying such technology along the U.S. border. Greene, however, has defended her amendment, arguing that the U.S. should have similar defense capabilities to protect its borders as Israel does. In a social media post, she stated, “I’ve previously voted to fund space lasers for Israel’s defense. America needs the same type of defense for our border that Israel has and proudly uses.”

The introduction of Greene’s amendment comes in the wake of an Iranian drone attack, which has heightened concerns about border security and defense capabilities. House Speaker Mike Johnson has released the text of two aid bills totaling $95 billion for Ukraine and Israel in response to the attack. Greene, who has been critical of Johnson’s leadership, immediately introduced three amendments to the bill, including the one for space laser technology on the southwest border, as well as funding for an Iron Dome and the completion of the border wall.

Greene’s proposed amendments have drawn mixed reactions, with some supporting her efforts to bolster border security and defense capabilities, while others have criticized her for what they perceive as outlandish and impractical proposals. Despite the controversy, Greene remains steadfast in her advocacy for increased border security measures and continued support for Israel’s defense.