Sanders Pushes for Arms Sale Ban to Israel
Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont is set to force a vote aimed at prohibiting the sale of arms to Israel. He intends to support two resolutions that would block a significant sale, valued at $675 million, which includes bombs and guidance kits, as well as “tens of thousands” of automatic rifles.
Sanders stated, “U.S. taxpayers have spent hundreds of billions of dollars supporting the extremist Netanyahu government. That’s plenty.” This is not his first attempt to halt arms sales to Israel. Since December 2023, following the Israel-Hamas conflict, multiple resolutions have been presented with the same goal.
This recent move comes after disturbing images surfaced showing hungry children in Gaza. Sanders commented on Congress’s lack of action, emphasizing that it has been too long since they used their leverage—like military funding—to demand that Israel address these issues.
The vote is anticipated late Thursday amid a shift in tone among Senate Democrats regarding Israel since the aggressive Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. Sanders previously attempted to stop over $8 billion in arms trades, gaining support from 15 Senate Democrats, while all Republicans opposed it. It seems likely that history may repeat itself, with the resolution expected to fail again, although more Democrats are expected to align with Sanders this time.
In response to the humanitarian situation, 40 Senate Democrats have urged the administration to enhance aid efforts in Gaza. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans, while criticizing the conditions in Gaza, are calling for more assistance. President Trump has promised to establish additional food centers under Israeli control for those in need.
Senate Majority Leader John Thune echoed Trump’s sentiments, expressing a desire to alleviate suffering but also acknowledged the complexity of the situation, stating, “When terrorist groups like Hamas are involved, they can obstruct aid.” This is a difficult challenge that resonates not only in this region but globally.
