US Senate Blocks Attempt to Stopper Some Military Sales to Israel
Despite worries over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the US Senate defeated a measure on Wednesday meant to stop tank shells from being sold to Israel.
Despite worries over the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the US Senate defeated a measure on Wednesday meant to stop tank shells from being sold to Israel. Out of 79 senators voting against the motion, 18 supporting it and one senator cast a blank vote. Senator Bernie Sanders presented the proposal, pointing out abuses of US rules prohibiting sales of firearms to human rights offenders. Sanders and other supporters contend that given the great suffering Gaza suffers—with over 43,000 Palestinians dead since Israel's attack against Hamas started—the US should not be giving military backing.
With the great bipartisan support for Israel, the resolution stood little chance of passing. Measure supporters thought that a noteworthy vote count would inspire Israel and the US government to act more aggressively in safeguarding citizens. With 2.3 million residents, Gaza has been especially affected by the continuous conflict; most of the population is homeless and at danger of hunger. Sanders denounced the military aid, claiming it added to the misery of the Gaza children.
Critics—including Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer—argued that Israel's defense requirements were dire given threats from organizations like Hamas, Hezbollah, and Iran. Emphasizing that Israel is surrounded by adversaries seeking for its destruction, Schumer argued for the nation's right to defend itself. Later on Wednesday, the Senate was scheduled to vote on two more measures aimed at further military sales to Israel.
