The US has promised $680 million in extra funds to the Israeli Iron Dome system, a protective anti-missile shield that safeguards Israelis living in range of frequent rocket attack from Palestine.

The money is in addition to the more than $200 million America paid in 2011. The increased help was first approached in March, when the Pentagon promised to ask Congress for the money. Now, a proposal has been commissioned from the House, which is expected to go through.

Next week, the Armed Services Committee will decide its 2013 budget, causing the submission of the new Iron Dome criteria. The funds will be paid out through 2015.

The Iron Dome system is incredibly expensive to operate per use. Three of the units have been deployed, though Israel reportedly said it needs at least 14 more. The shields were able to intercept approximately 80 percent of the heavy fire attacks from March, when more than 300 rockets were launched near Sderot.

The proposal was drafted by Republicans and Barack Obama's reaction may give him an edge as the campaign year moves into summer.