In a decisive vote that underscored the deep-seated political and strategic alliances within the U.S. government, the Senate has voted down three joint resolutions introduced by independent Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont. The resolutions would have blocked the transfer of approximately $20 billion worth of arms to Israel—a move intended to curtail U.S. military support amid growing humanitarian concerns in the region. This legislative action comes amid an intensifying backdrop of violence in Gaza, widespread warnings from international humanitarian agencies about impending famine, and a persistent debate over the nature of U.S. support for Israel.

Context and Background

The Escalating Conflict in Gaza

The Senate’s decision arrives against the backdrop of renewed conflict between Israel and Palestinian militants. A year following the large-scale attack on Israel by Hamas on October 7, 2023, which resulted in significant casualties and the taking of hostages, the situation in the region has rapidly deteriorated. Israeli military operations, both aerial and ground, in Gaza have led to substantial loss of life. According to reports from the Gaza Health Ministry, the ongoing military campaign has resulted in casualties estimated to be in the tens of thousands, with some assessments indicating that over 43,000 people have been killed.

As the conflict has unfolded, international organizations and United Nations officials have warned of a looming humanitarian catastrophe. With more than 2 million Palestinians reportedly experiencing “extremely critical” levels of hunger, concerns over widespread famine have reached a crisis point. These warnings have added a moral and humanitarian dimension to debates within the U.S. regarding the nature and scope of American military and economic support for Israel.

Legislative Efforts and Senator Sanders’ Initiative

Against this volatile backdrop, Senator Bernie Sanders, known for his vocal criticism of what he describes as unchecked U.S. military aid to Israel, introduced three Joint Resolutions of Disapproval (JRDs) in late September. Sanders’ proposals were designed to prevent further arms transfers to Israel, arguing that the U.S. should not be complicit in fueling a conflict that has resulted in significant civilian suffering. According to Sanders, the continued sale of arms not only reinforces a military approach that contributes to mass casualties but also aligns with policies that undermine efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

In a passionate floor speech delivered on the Senate floor, Senator Sanders made an impassioned plea to his colleagues. He urged them to consider the humanitarian consequences of the arms sale, contending that U.S. support in the form of arms sales was effectively enabling policies that could lead to “mass starvation” in the region. Sanders’ rhetoric was aimed at highlighting what he saw as the moral and ethical contradictions inherent in U.S. foreign policy, particularly in light of the vast sums of money spent on military aid.