U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders, who is Jewish, has called for an end to American military aid to Israel due to its actions in the Gaza war. In an interview with NBC’s “Meet The Press,” Sanders stated that Israel has broken international and American law and should not receive further aid.
He condemned Hamas as a “disgusting terrorist organization” but emphasized that Israel’s response has been disproportionate and harmful to the Palestinian people.
Sanders highlighted the devastating impact of Israel’s actions, including the deaths of 35,000 Palestinians, the destruction of 60% of Gaza’s housing, and the decimation of civilian infrastructure.
He also noted that every university in Gaza has been bombed and warned of the looming threat of starvation for hundreds of thousands of children. The senator emphasized that the situation in Gaza is a humanitarian crisis, with civilians facing extreme suffering and aid organizations struggling to reach those in need.
Sanders referenced the Foreign Assistance Act, which prohibits aid to countries that block U.S. humanitarian assistance. He criticized Republican politicians and some Democrats for supporting Israel’s actions despite international opposition and warned that Israel is becoming a “pariah nation.”
Sanders emphasized the need to defeat Hamas but not at the cost of causing enormous destruction and human suffering. He advocated for a non-military solution to address the conflict, prioritizing diplomacy and international cooperation to achieve a lasting peace.
Sanders’ comments reflect a growing divide in American politics on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. While some lawmakers continue to support Israel’s actions, others are increasingly critical of the country’s human rights record and the impact of its policies on the Palestinian people. As the situation in Gaza continues to deteriorate, Sanders’ call for an end to military aid to Israel is likely to resonate with those seeking a more balanced approach to the conflict.