US Senator Bernie Sanders Vows to Block Arms Sales to Israel
US Senator Bernie Sanders has pledged to do everything in his power to block arms sales to Israel, citing the country’s human rights violations and the devastating impact of its military actions on the Palestinian people.
Background
The US State Department recently informally notified Congress of a proposed arms deal with Israel worth US$8 billion, which includes munitions for fighter jets and artillery shells. The proposed sale, pending congressional approval, includes AIM-120C-8 AMRAAM air-to-air missiles to defend against airborne threats, including drones, 155mm artillery shells, small diameter bombs, 500-pound warheads, bomb fuses, and other related equipment.
Criticism and Concerns
The US faces criticism for providing military aid to Israel, as more than 45,650 Palestinians, mostly women and children, have been killed in the Gaza Strip since October 7, 2023. Several human rights groups, former State Department officials, and Democratic lawmakers have urged the Biden administration to halt arms transfers to Israel, citing violations of US laws as well as international laws and human rights. Israel denies the allegations.
Senator Sanders’ Stance
Senator Sanders has expressed his strong opposition to the proposed arms deal, stating that the US "must not send more bombs to Netanyahu’s extremist government, which has already killed 45,000 people; destroyed Gaza’s housing, health care, and educational systems; and caused starvation by blocking humanitarian aid." He has vowed to do everything in his power to block the arms sales, emphasizing that the US must prioritize human rights and international law over its military alliance with Israel.
Consequences of Arms Sales
The proposed arms deal has sparked widespread concern among human rights advocates and critics of Israel’s military actions. The sale of advanced military equipment to Israel could exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip and perpetuate the cycle of violence and conflict in the region.
Conclusion
Senator Sanders’ commitment to blocking arms sales to Israel is a significant development in the ongoing debate over US military aid to the country. As the US Congress considers the proposed arms deal, it is essential to prioritize human rights and international law over military alliances and to address the devastating impact of Israel’s military actions on the Palestinian people.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the proposed arms deal between the US and Israel?
A: The proposed deal includes munitions for fighter jets and artillery shells, worth US$8 billion.
Q: What are the concerns surrounding the proposed arms deal?
A: Critics argue that the deal will perpetuate the cycle of violence and conflict in the region, exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip, and violate US laws and international human rights.
Q: What is Senator Sanders’ stance on the proposed arms deal?
A: Senator Sanders has pledged to do everything in his power to block the arms sales, citing human rights violations and the devastating impact of Israel’s military actions on the Palestinian people.
Q: What are the implications of the proposed arms deal for the US and Israel?
A: The deal could strengthen the US-Israel military alliance, but it could also perpetuate the cycle of violence and conflict in the region, damaging the US’ reputation as a champion of human rights and international law.