Official statements from the White House or Department of Defense

Senate, Led by Bernie Sanders, Moves to Block $20 Billion Arms Sale to Israel Amid Humanitarian Concerns

Nov 18, 2024, 05:21 PM

A significant political movement is underway in the U.S. Senate to block a $20 billion arms sale to Israel. Spearheaded by Senator Bernie Sanders, the Joint Resolutions of Disapproval aim to halt the sale of offensive weapons, citing Israel's actions that have resulted in civilian casualties. J Street, a prominent advocacy group, is urging senators to support the resolutions, marking a shift to a more critical stance towards Israel. Senator Chris Van Hollen has endorsed the resolutions, calling for a pause on offensive weapons until humanitarian requirements are met, while maintaining support for defensive aid like the Iron Dome. Stacy Gilbert has noted that Israel continues to block humanitarian assistance, impacting U.S. law on weapons sales. The Biden administration faces increasing pressure to reconsider its stance on arms sales to Israel, with growing public and political support for an arms embargo. Jeremy Ben-Ami of J Street stated that while the resolution may not block the sales, 'symbolism has meaning.' Senator Sanders emphasized that 'the American people have had enough.'