Sanders: Withholding Aid from Israel is a Positive Progression

Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont praised President Joe Biden’s decision to withhold specific military aid from Israel as a positive step forward, but emphasized the need for further action.

In an interview with CNN on Wednesday night, Sanders shared his views shortly after Biden’s warning to Israel not to enter Rafah, a Hamas stronghold, by withholding artillery shells and heavy munitions.

Sanders referenced the death toll in Gaza, provided by Hamas, which he and other progressives view as accurate, although experts have disputed these numbers.

“Netanyahu should not have received any support as long as this destructive conflict continued. I am pleased to see the president taking steps in that direction,” Sanders stated.

Sanders also released a statement on Wednesday applauding Biden’s decision to withhold necessary munitions for a potential incursion in Rafah.

“President Biden made the right call to halt bomb delivery to the extreme Israeli government. However, this is just the beginning. The U.S. must use its influence to demand an immediate ceasefire, end attacks on Rafah, and provide urgent humanitarian aid to those in need,” Sanders emphasized.

In an earlier CNN interview on Wednesday, Biden confirmed the U.S. suspension of certain military aid approved by Congress and signed into law by himself, aligning with Israel’s recent announcement.

“We are not compromising Israel’s security but limiting their ability to engage in warfare in specific areas,” Biden stated.

Sanders believes this action falls short, asserting that while Israel has the right to self-defense, broad conflict resulting in massive casualties is unacceptable. He highlighted America’s role in addressing the situation.

“We have substantial military support for Israel at our disposal, which the president could withhold. We must leverage this power to address the ongoing crisis,” Sanders urged.