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In a significant display of growing division within the Democratic Party, 19 Senate Democrats voted to advance resolutions aimed at blocking certain U.S. weapon sales to Israel. Led by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), the resolutions sought to restrict the transfer of tank rounds, mortar shells, and guidance kits for bombs to Israel. Despite being widely expected to fail, the vote marks a notable shift in Democratic perspectives on U.S. support for Israel, with more than three-quarters of the Senate ultimately voting against the measures.

President Joe Biden and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) were among the primary opponents of the resolutions. Schumer warned that blocking the arms sales would undermine Israel's ability to defend itself against long-term threats, highlighting that the weapons in question would not reach Israel for at least another year. "We should not stray from the policy of supporting Israel's defensive needs," Schumer stated, emphasizing that the U.S.-Israel security relationship transcends individual governments.

The supporting votes came from a mix of influential Democratic Senators, including Elizabeth Warren (D-MA), Dick Durbin (D-IL), and Chris Van Hollen (D-MD). Notably, Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), who is poised to become the Democratic ranking member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, also supported all three resolutions. Shaheen articulated her stance by expressing concern over humanitarian conditions in Gaza, advocating for a change in the Israeli government’s approach to the conflict.

Senator Durbin, who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee, echoed calls for an end to the war and criticized Israel's strategy of targeting areas near civilian populations. "The United States should not be providing arms that contribute to the devastation of Gaza," he said, calling for real humanitarian aid for Palestinians.

The resolutions drew substantial debate, with opponents including Sen. Ben Cardin (D-MD) and Sen. Jacky Rosen (D-NV) arguing that blocking precision-guided munitions would be counterproductive and could embolden adversaries like Iran and Hezbollah. "By providing Israel with these weapons, we can actually help minimize civilian casualties while enabling Israel to defend itself," Rosen stated.

All present Republican Senators voted against the measures, with incoming Senate Republican Conference Chair Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) criticizing Democrats for attempting to cut off critical aid to Israel. "America's friendship with Israel is foundational for peace and security," Barrasso asserted.

The results have sparked varying reactions from Jewish organizations. AIPAC celebrated the majority's decision to reject the resolutions, while progressive groups like J Street viewed the vote as a step toward holding Israel accountable for its actions.

This internal Democratic debate on U.S. assistance to Israel is expected to continue affecting the party's stance on foreign policy, indicating substantial shifts and growing complexities in American-Israeli relations moving forward.