The U.S. Senate has voted decisively against three resolutions that aimed to halt the transfer of certain U.S. military weapons to Israel. These resolutions were introduced by progressive lawmakers who voiced concerns over the human rights situation faced by Palestinians in Gaza.
All the votes in favor of blocking the military sales came from the Democratic caucus, while the opposition was split across both Democrats and Republicans. This division highlighted the internal differences within President Biden’s Democratic Party regarding its stance on Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government.
A total of 79 senators voted against a proposal to stop the transfer of tank rounds to Israel, while 18 senators supported it, and one voted present. Similarly, 78 senators opposed halting the shipment of mortar rounds, with 19 in favor and one voting present. The third measure, which sought to block shipments of joint direct attack munitions (JDAMS) kits, was also defeated, with 80 votes against it, 17 in favor, and one senator voting present. JDAMS kits, which are manufactured by Boeing, convert unguided bombs into precision-guided weapons using GPS and fins.
The resolutions, filed by independent Senator Bernie Sanders, who aligns with the Democrats, were co-sponsored by several Democratic lawmakers critical of Israel’s actions in Gaza. Despite a strong tradition of bipartisan support for Israel in Congress, the resolutions were unlikely to succeed. However, their sponsors hoped that the votes would send a message to both Israel’s government and President Biden’s administration, urging greater protection for Palestinian civilians.
In total, Sanders proposed six resolutions, which would have affected $20 billion in military aid to Israel. However, only three resolutions were brought to a vote this week.
The Biden administration opposed the resolutions, arguing that providing military support to Israel is crucial for its long-term security, especially given the threats from Iran and other regions. The administration also emphasized its ongoing efforts to improve conditions in Gaza.
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