The conversation on reducing aid to Israel, driven by the Gaza conflict and Netanyahu’s policies, marks a significant shift in Washington.
While the Senate bill places no restrictions, Democrats, including progressives, discuss conditioning aid, breaking a pro-Israel consensus
Israel financial support opposed in US congress
The United States is currently divided on the issue of sending more aid to Israel. President Biden proposed a $105 billion spending package, which would include additional military aid for Israel and Ukraine.
But differing from previous votes, the Democratic-controlled Senate failed to advance it due to a 49-51 vote falling short of the required 60 votes. Senator Bernie Sanders, an independent caucusing with Democrats, opposed the package, particularly objecting to the additional $10.1 billion for Israel.
Bernie Sanders questions USA’s Israel support
Sanders furthermore expressed concerns about providing funds without conditions (demands) to the Netanyahu government, especially amid the conflict in the Gaza Strip. This suggests a growing willingness within the U.S, even among Democrats, to scrutinize and potentially condition aid to Israel, marking a departure from the traditional pro-Israel stance in Washington.
Why is US’s Israel aid under scrutiny?
United States officials are urging Israel to play by the rules of law. As of today, the Palestinian death toll in Gaza from the Israel-Hamas war has surpassed 17,700. The Palestinian Health Ministry reports that 70% of these casualties were women and children.
As easy as it is to see the war as a fight against terror, the people impacted the most by the attack are innocent civilians. In addition to the horrible attacks, Israel has blocked medical supplies, food and aid.
The rising number of casualties highlights the significant human cost and impact on civilians in Gaza as a result of the conflict. Despite the growing pleas and acknowledgement of horrific practices in the war, the United States still votes against a ceasefire, claiming it would benefit the terrorist group Hamas.