Senate Blocks Bernie Sanders’ Attempt to Restrict Weapon Sales to Israel

The Senate overwhelmingly rejected three resolutions led by Sen. Bernie Sanders that aimed to block offensive weapons sales to Israel. The resolutions focused on tank rounds, mortar rounds, and guidance kits used on bombs in Gaza. Sanders accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of violating international and U.S. law, while arguing that the resolutions would not affect Israel’s defensive capabilities. Democratic senators Ed Markey and Martin Heinrich supported the resolutions, citing concerns about Israeli actions and the toll of the conflict on innocent Palestinians. Sen. Tammy Baldwin abstained, stating that neither a yes nor no vote aligned with her goals of supporting Israel’s defense while protecting innocent lives. Other Democrats and all Republicans voted against the resolutions, defending Israel’s right to defend itself. The Biden administration’s handling of the conflict has been criticized by anti-war progressives, who advocate for ending the conflict and question the U.S. alliance with Israel. Israel has justified its actions by claiming the need to prevent future attacks. The conflict has resulted in the deaths of over 43,000 Palestinians, with a significant number being women and children. Hamas combatants and civilians are included in the death toll.

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