Bernie Sanders Challenges Senate on Israel Arms Sales

Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent from Vermont who often aligns with Senate Democrats, is set to challenge the U.S. Senate by forcing a vote on blocking arms sales to Israel. This move is expected to test the evolving stance of Senate Democrats on the Jewish state. Sanders has announced his intention to introduce resolutions aimed at halting a $675 million arms deal, which includes thousands of bombs, guidance kits, and automatic rifles intended for Israel. He argues that U.S. taxpayers have already contributed tens of billions of dollars to support what he describes as the “racist, extremist Netanyahu government.”

A History of Opposition to Military Aid

This is not the first time Sanders has attempted to block military aid to Israel. Since December 2023, following the conflict between Israel and Hamas, Sanders has introduced or forced votes on similar resolutions five times. Each effort has been aimed at preventing military aid and billions in munitions sales. His latest push comes in response to images of starving children in Gaza, which he attributes to the actions of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

Democratic Shift and Expected Vote Outcome

The upcoming vote, anticipated late Thursday, coincides with a noticeable shift among Senate Democrats regarding their stance on Israel since the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023. In Sanders’ previous attempt earlier this year to block over $8 billion in arms sales, 15 Senate Democrats supported the resolution, while all Republicans opposed it. Although these resolutions are expected to fail as before, more Democrats are likely to join Sanders this time.

Humanitarian Concerns and Political Reactions

Earlier this week, 40 Senate Democrats urged Secretary of State Marco Rubio and U.S. Special Envoy Steve Witkoff to advocate for increased humanitarian aid in Gaza. Meanwhile, Senate Republicans have largely attributed the dire conditions in Gaza to Hamas and have called for more food aid. President Donald Trump has promised additional food centers managed by Israel. Senate Majority Leader John Thune echoed Trump’s sentiments but highlighted the challenges posed by Hamas intercepting aid.