The Senate blocks Bernie Sanders’ attempt to restrict weapons sales to Israel.

The Senate rejected three resolutions led by Sen. Bernie Sanders that would have blocked offensive weapons sales to Israel. The resolutions focused on tank rounds, mortar rounds, and guidance kits attached to bombs dropped in Gaza. Sanders argued that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has violated international law and human rights. Despite bipartisan opposition, only two Democrats, Ed Markey and Martin Heinrich, voted in favor of the resolutions. Sen. Tammy Baldwin abstained, stating that neither a “yes” nor “no” vote aligned with her goals of supporting Israel’s defense while protecting innocent Palestinians. Many Democrats and all Republicans voted against the resolutions, with Republicans arguing that limiting Israel’s defense hurts its enemies. During the presidential campaign, anti-war progressives criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the conflict and its alliance with Israel. Israel’s government has defended its actions by citing the need to prevent a terrorist attack similar to one in 2023. Health officials in Gaza report that over 43,000 Palestinians have been killed in Israel’s offensive, with more than half being women and children. The Senate vote highlights the ongoing debate over U.S. support for Israel and the conflict in Gaza.

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