Senate Rejects Bernie Sanders’ Effort to Block $20 Billion Arms Sale to Israel
The U.S. Senate has voted against a series of resolutions introduced by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) that sought to block a proposed $20 billion arms sale to Israel. The decision reinforces the Biden administration’s stance on continuing military support for Israel, despite growing concerns from some lawmakers about the ongoing conflict in Gaza and its humanitarian impact.
Sanders’ Effort to Halt Arms Sales
Senator Sanders introduced three resolutions aimed at preventing the sale of U.S. military equipment, including precision-guided munitions, to Israel. The move was part of his broader call for the U.S. to reassess its support for Israel, particularly in light of the civilian casualties in Gaza. Sanders has been a vocal critic of the Israeli government’s military actions and has pushed for conditions to be placed on U.S. military aid.
In a speech on the Senate floor, Sanders argued that continuing to provide arms to Israel without conditions would further escalate violence and undermine efforts to achieve a peaceful resolution to the conflict. He stressed the need for the U.S. to play a more balanced role in international diplomacy rather than providing unconditional support to any foreign government.
Senate Votes Against Resolutions
Despite Sanders’ efforts, the Senate overwhelmingly rejected all three resolutions. A majority of lawmakers defended the arms sale, citing Israel’s right to self-defense and the importance of maintaining strong U.S.-Israel relations. Opponents of Sanders’ proposal argued that withholding military support could weaken Israel’s ability to combat regional threats, including attacks from Hamas and Hezbollah.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) stated that while humanitarian concerns in Gaza are serious, the U.S. must continue to stand by its allies. Others, including Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY), emphasized that the sale was crucial for Israel’s security and for maintaining stability in the Middle East.
A Growing Divide in U.S. Foreign Policy
While Sanders’ resolutions failed, the debate highlights a growing divide within the U.S. government over its approach to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Progressive lawmakers, including some members of the Democratic Party, have increasingly called for stricter oversight and conditions on U.S. military aid to Israel. They argue that American weapons should not be used in operations that result in high civilian casualties.
On the other hand, a bipartisan majority in Congress continues to support Israel, pointing to its status as a key ally and its need for defense against hostile groups in the region. The Biden administration has maintained its commitment to providing military aid, though it has urged Israel to minimize civilian harm in Gaza.
What Comes Next?
The Senate’s decision means the arms sale will proceed as planned. However, the debate is likely to continue as concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza persist. Sanders and other progressive lawmakers may push for alternative measures, such as increased humanitarian aid for Palestinian civilians or diplomatic efforts to broker a ceasefire.
For now, the U.S. remains a primary supplier of military assistance to Israel, reaffirming its long-standing alliance while facing ongoing scrutiny over its role in the region’s conflicts.