Sen. Bernie Sanders praised President Joe Biden’s warning to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the potential invasion of Rafah in southern Gaza, but emphasized that more needs to be done to address the humanitarian crisis in the region. Sanders commended Biden’s decision to halt offensive weapon sales to Israel if they proceed with the invasion, citing the devastation caused by the conflict which has resulted in the deaths of over 34,000 Palestinians. Despite these measures, Sanders believes additional action is necessary.
During an interview with CNN, Sanders criticized Netanyahu’s actions in Gaza as unconscionable and expressed his belief that the U.S. should have withheld financial support as long as the destructive war continued. While he acknowledged Israel’s right to defend itself following previous attacks, Sanders argued that they do not have the right to wage war against the entire Palestinian population. He urged the U.S. to not be complicit in the ongoing conflict and emphasized the need to leverage its aid supply to Israel to promote peace and justice in the region.
President Biden, in a separate interview with CNN, stated that the U.S. would cease providing offensive weaponry to Israel if they moved forward with the planned invasion of Rafah, where thousands of Palestinians have sought refuge. While Biden reiterated that the U.S. will continue to support Israel’s defense, he made it clear that weapons historically used in such situations would not be provided. This decision was met with backlash from Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.
Sanders also criticized the recent foreign aid package signed by Biden, which included billions of dollars in aid to Israel and humanitarian assistance to Gaza. He argued that the U.S. should have placed conditions on aid for Israel earlier, using its leverage as a major aid supplier to promote peace and justice in the region. The delay in a major shipment of bombs to Israel over the Rafah offensive was confirmed by Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin, but the Biden administration clarified that it was not part of the aid package dedicated to Israel.
Despite the initial steps taken by the Biden administration, Sanders believes that more action is needed to address the ongoing conflict in Gaza and the broader Israeli-Palestinian conflict. He emphasized the need for the U.S. to take a stronger stance against the violence and destruction in the region and to work towards a just and lasting solution. Sanders also announced his intention to seek reelection for another term in office, indicating his continued commitment to advocating for peace and justice in the Middle East.
