Senate Foreign Relations Committee chairman Sen. Ben Cardin, D-Md., expressed his stance on military aid to Israel, diverging from President Biden's position. Cardin emphasized that military assistance to support Israel's security remains in the U.S. interest and should continue, despite recent concerns raised in a State Department report.
The report documented credible allegations of human rights abuses by Israeli security forces, including arbitrary killings and torture. However, it stopped short of accusing Israel of specific humanitarian law violations, noting Hamas's use of civilian populations as shields.
President Biden's decision to pause a shipment of bombs to Israel, pending its actions in Gaza, has sparked debate among Democratic lawmakers. Some, like Sen. John Fetterman, oppose the pause, emphasizing the need to stand by Israel in its defense against Hamas.
Sen. Jacky Rosen and Sen. Richard Blumenthal echoed the sentiment that U.S. support for Israel should be unwavering, especially in the face of threats from Iran and Hamas. They emphasized the importance of maintaining Israel's ability to defend itself.
The White House defended Biden's decision, stating that it prioritizes national security interests and alliances over politics. The administration reiterated Biden's support for Israel in combating Hamas terrorism and highlighted his historic actions in actively defending Israel.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza has highlighted the complexities of U.S.-Israel relations, with differing opinions within the Democratic Party and growing anti-Israel sentiments on college campuses.
