Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont, has taken a firm stance against U.S. arms sales to Israel in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. His recent efforts in the Senate aimed to block nearly $20 billion in proposed weapons deals, citing humanitarian concerns and violations of international law. These measures reflect Sanders’ broader criticism of Israel’s military actions and U.S. involvement in supplying offensive weaponry.
The three Senate resolutions introduced by Sanders were part of a continued push to hold Israel accountable for its military campaign following the October 2023 Hamas attack. That assault by Hamas prompted Israel to launch a prolonged and devastating response in Gaza. Since then, over 43,000 deaths have been reported, intensifying global scrutiny and concern about the conduct of Israel’s military operations and the resulting humanitarian crisis.
Despite Sanders’ advocacy, the Senate overwhelmingly rejected all three resolutions. The votes were not close: S.J. Res. 111 failed 18–79, S.J. Res. 115 failed 17–80, and S.J. Res. 113 failed 19–78. These results reflect a bipartisan consensus in favor of maintaining military support for Israel, despite growing divisions within both parties about the scale and consequences of the war in Gaza.
Throughout the conflict, Sanders has been a consistent voice of criticism against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He has condemned Israel’s conduct, arguing that its actions have gone far beyond the right to self-defense. Sanders has specifically pointed to the restriction of humanitarian aid and the high civilian death toll as evidence of Israel’s violation of international norms and law.
Sanders’ position has placed him at odds with many in the Senate, including members of his own Democratic caucus. However, his advocacy reflects a shift among some progressive lawmakers and constituents who are increasingly questioning U.S. support for Israel without conditions. His proposals, though unsuccessful in the Senate, aim to open debate over America’s role in foreign conflicts and the ethical implications of arms sales.
In conclusion, while Senator Sanders’ resolutions were soundly defeated, they underscore a growing rift in American politics over U.S. policy toward Israel. His continued criticism of Netanyahu’s government and calls for accountability highlight a deeper concern about the human cost of the war in Gaza and America’s complicity through arms sales. The debate over these issues is unlikely to end with these votes.
