Senate Rejects Sanders' Bid to Block Arms Sales to Israel
The U.S. Senate defeated Senator Bernie Sanders' effort to block two major arms sales to Israel, voting largely along party lines. The resolutions sought to disapprove a $295 million sale of Caterpillar bulldozers and a $151.8 million sale of 1,000-pound gravity bombs. The Senate rejected the motions with votes of 40-59 and 36-63, respectively. Sanders argued that these weapons are used in ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, causing civilian casualties and demolishing homes. He urged an end to military aid to the Netanyahu government, criticizing the influence of pro-Israel lobbying groups. While the measure failed, the vote reflected a growing dissent among Democrats regarding unconditional support for Israel. Senators Jeff Merkley and Mark Kelly voiced support or concern, citing the lack of clear strategy in the joint U.S.-Israeli war against Iran and the humanitarian impact in Lebanon and the West Bank. Historically, congressional attempts to block arms sales via joint resolutions rarely succeed, with only one enacted into law since 1974.
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Senate Rejects Sanders' Bid to Block Arms Sales to Israel
The U.S. Senate defeated Senator Bernie Sanders' effort to block two major arms sales to Israel, voting largely along party lines. The resolutions sought to disapprove a $295 million sale of Caterpillar bulldozers and a $151.8 million sale of 1,000-pound gravity bombs. The Senate rejected the motions with votes of 40-59 and 36-63, respectively. Sanders argued that these weapons are used in ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran, causing civilian casualties and demolishing homes. He urged an end to military aid to the Netanyahu government, criticizing the influence of pro-Israel lobbying groups. While the measure failed, the vote reflected a growing dissent among Democrats regarding unconditional support for Israel. Senators Jeff Merkley and Mark Kelly voiced support or concern, citing the lack of clear strategy in the joint U.S.-Israeli war against Iran and the humanitarian impact in Lebanon and the West Bank. Historically, congressional attempts to block arms sales via joint resolutions rarely succeed, with only one enacted into law since 1974.
Roll Call