In a recent interview with Margaret Brennan on "Face the Nation," Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) expressed his opposition to calls for a permanent cease-fire between Israel and Hamas. Sanders cited Israel's right to defend itself and the unviability of a long-term truce due to Hamas' stated intentions of destroying Israel.

Sanders acknowledged that his stance puts him at odds with many other progressives but emphasized his support for a humanitarian pause proposed by the United Nations. Unfortunately, the U.S. blocked this resolution. Sanders hoped for American support for the resolution, which included the release of all hostages held by Hamas and the provision of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian people.

However, Sanders questioned the feasibility of a permanent cease-fire when Hamas has consistently expressed its desire to destroy Israel. He stated, "I don't know how you can have a permanent cease-fire with an attitude like that."

When asked by Brennan if the offensive against Hamas is justified, Sanders replied, "I think Israel has the right to defend itself and to go after Hamas, not the Palestinian people." He made it clear that he supports Israel's right to defend itself against Hamas militants.

Meanwhile, Sanders has joined other lawmakers in opposing unconditional aid for Israel. Last week, he voiced his opposition to President Joe Biden's request for multibillion-dollar military funding.

The conflict between Israel and Hamas has now entered its third month, resulting in significant casualties. Nearly 18,000 Palestinians have lost their lives, while approximately 100 Israeli soldiers have been killed due to Israel's ground attack in Gaza. The war was ignited by an attack by Hamas on October 7, in which around 1,200 Israelis were killed, and hundreds were kidnapped.

As the conflict continues, the differing views on how to achieve a lasting peace between Israel and Hamas highlight the complexities of the situation and the challenges faced by those seeking a resolution. Sanders' opposition to a permanent cease-fire underscores the need to address the deep-rooted issues plaguing the region while recognizing Israel's right to self-defense.