Hundreds of Arizona Democrats, including nearly a dozen convention delegates pledged to Vice President Kamala Harris, have signed a letter urging the US to impose an arms embargo on Israel until a permanent ceasefire is reached in Gaza. The document, which has garnered over 325 signatures, includes current and former state lawmakers, local leaders, party officials, and Palestinian and Jewish activists.
The organizers of the letter emphasize the importance of securing a permanent ceasefire and hostage release agreement as a moral, legal, and humanitarian imperative. They believe this is crucial for uniting the pro-democracy coalition to defeat Donald Trump and elect Democrats in Arizona.
While Democrats have rallied behind Vice President Harris, the conflict in Gaza, which began in response to Hamas' attacks in October 2023, has caused division within the party. Protests, some turning violent and antisemitic, have taken place outside the DNC perimeter in Chicago, where the convention is being held.
Despite ongoing ceasefire negotiations in the Middle East, efforts by the Biden administration to secure a pause in the fighting in Gaza and the release of Israeli hostages have not been successful. The Uncommitted National Movement in Chicago, born out of Michigan's protest vote, has been advocating for a primetime speaking slot at the convention. However, their requests, including a call for a halt on deadly weapons to Israel, have faced resistance from party officials.
