In a decisive series of votes, the Senate rejected three resolutions proposed by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and a group of Democratic allies to block U.S. arms sales to Israel. The resolutions, aimed at halting the transfer of artillery, mortar shells, and precision-guided munitions, were overwhelmingly voted down in the chamber.
The first resolution, S.J.Res.111, sought to prohibit the sale of over 32,000 high-explosive 120mm tank cartridges, including:
- M1147 High Explosive Multi-Purpose with Tracer (HEMP-T) cartridges.
- M830A1 High Explosive Multi-Purpose Anti-Tank (MPAT) with Tracer cartridges.
The measure also covered transportation costs, technical support, and related logistics. However, it was soundly defeated in an 18-79 vote, with bipartisan opposition.
The second proposal, S.J.Res.113, targeted the sale of 50,400 M933A1 120mm high-explosive mortar cartridges. It met a similar fate, failing 18-79-1.
Finally, S.J.Res.115, which aimed to block the sale of kits designed to transform “dumb” bombs into precision-guided weapons, was rejected in a 17-80-1 vote.
Eighteen senators, mostly Democrats, supported Sanders’ efforts to block the weapons sales. Among them were:
- Elizabeth Warren (D-MA)
- Dick Durbin (D-IL)
- Chris Murphy (D-CT)
- Bernie Sanders (I-VT)
- Raphael Warnock (D-GA)
- Tim Kaine (D-VA)
Senators cited concerns about Israel’s military actions in Gaza and alleged human rights violations as their reasons for opposing the sales.
Senator Sanders, a longtime critic of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, framed the resolutions as a stand against what he called “offensive weapons” used in attacks on Gaza and Lebanon. Citing the Foreign Assistance Act and the Arms Control Act, Sanders argued that the U.S. is prohibited from providing arms to countries violating international human rights or obstructing humanitarian aid.
“These weapons have been used to devastating effects against civilians,” Sanders asserted, calling for the U.S. to enforce its own laws regarding foreign military aid.
Sanders’ criticism of Israel is not new. Earlier this year, he labeled Netanyahu a “war criminal” and boycotted the Israeli leader’s address to Congress.
Senator Joni Ernst (R-IA) was among those who opposed Sanders’ proposals, arguing that blocking arms sales to Israel would hinder its ability to defend itself against Iran-backed Hamas militants.
“Instead of blocking these critical sales,” Ernst stated, “the United States must ensure Israel has the tools to demolish Hamas and send a clear message to Tehran.”
Other lawmakers shared similar sentiments, emphasizing the importance of supporting Israel as a vital U.S. ally in the Middle East.
The failed resolutions come at a time of heightened tension in the region. Israel continues its military operations in Gaza following the deadly Hamas attacks on October 7, which killed over 1,200 Israelis. The U.S. has reiterated its support for Israel, with President Joe Biden affirming its right to self-defense.
Critics of Sanders’ resolutions argue that halting arms sales would undermine U.S. foreign policy objectives and leave Israel vulnerable to escalating threats. Proponents, however, maintain that the U.S. must not condone actions that result in civilian casualties.
The rejection of these resolutions underscores the Senate’s strong bipartisan support for U.S. military aid to Israel. With the Biden administration and congressional leadership backing arms sales, future attempts to curtail U.S. support for Israel are unlikely to succeed.
For Sanders and his allies, the votes represent a setback in their push for greater accountability in U.S. foreign aid. However, the senator has indicated he will continue to challenge military aid policies he deems inconsistent with American values.
The debate highlights a growing divide within the Democratic Party over U.S.-Israel relations, reflecting broader discussions about America’s role in global conflicts and human rights advocacy.
