Bernie Sanders Calls for Change in Israel's Humanitarian Aid Policy Amid Gaza Crisis

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ICARO Media Group
Politics
10/03/2024 19h27

In a recent appearance on "Face the Nation," Senator Bernie Sanders called on the Biden administration to press Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on changing Israel's policy regarding humanitarian aid to Gaza. Sanders, a long-time critic of Netanyahu, argued that if Israel wants to continue receiving support from the United States, it must address the ongoing crisis in Gaza.

Sanders expressed his concerns and criticized the allocation of funds towards what he described as "Netanyahu's war machine to kill Palestinian children." He joined a group of lawmakers who believe that Israel is violating the Foreign Assistance Act by preventing American humanitarian aid from reaching Gaza. Sanders stated that suspending or conditioning aid to Israel would be the appropriate course of action.

Highlighting the dire conditions in Gaza, Sanders emphasized the thousands of children currently facing the threat of starvation. Regardless of political affiliation, Sanders implored that no one wants to witness the suffering of children in Gaza. He stressed the urgency of addressing the immediate need for food by calling for an immediate ceasefire to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid.

Sanders also shared his belief that achieving peace in the region would require a change in leadership. He expressed that both Hamas, which governs Gaza, and the Netanyahu government must be replaced for peace to prevail.

The timing of Sanders' remarks coincides with the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan. President Biden had previously expressed his hope for a six-week ceasefire during this period, but negotiations have reached a standstill, making the realization of this goal unlikely.

The Biden administration's tone towards Netanyahu has become increasingly stern in recent weeks, following mounting political pressure. President Biden was reportedly caught on a hot mic discussing his intention to have a "come to Jesus" conversation with the Israeli prime minister regarding humanitarian aid.

Progressives in the United States have criticized the Biden administration's handling of the Israel-Hamas conflict. Sanders' base has been particularly vocal, launching campaigns to convey their waning support for the president's reelection bid. Despite this criticism, Sanders made a clear distinction between President Biden and former President Donald Trump, urging voters to consider key issues such as climate change, women's rights, tax breaks for the wealthy, prescription drug prices, and the democratic process.

Sanders concluded by affirming his commitment to pushing for a change in Biden's policy on Gaza. He echoed the stark contrast between Biden and Trump, emphasizing that the choice between the two was "day and night."

As the situation in Gaza continues to draw international attention, the pressure remains on the Biden administration to address the humanitarian crisis and work towards a lasting resolution in the region.

The views expressed in this article do not reflect the opinion of ICARO, or any of its affiliates.

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