Senators React to Biden’s Decision to Halt Bomb Delivery and Potential Holdback of Arms for Israel
Lawmakers, both Republicans and Democrats, expressed strong opposition to President Biden’s decision to pause the delivery of “high-payload” bombs for Israel. Progressives and some Democrats, however, welcomed the move.
On May 9, Republican senators on Capitol Hill were outraged by news that President Biden’s administration had halted a shipment of bombs for Israel and might withhold further weapons.
Later, President Biden spoke about the casualties in Gaza due to Israel’s use of powerful bombs. He reiterated his disapproval of a major Israeli military operation in Rafah, stating, “I’m not supplying the weapons if they go into Rafah.”
Senator Marco Rubio (R-Fla.) criticized the decision, calling it outrageous and suggesting it empowers Hamas by discouraging them from surrendering.
Senator Rubio, ranking member of the Senate Intelligence Committee, emphasized the potential for a ceasefire in Gaza if Hamas surrenders and releases hostages taken in October.
He also expressed concerns about public sentiments and urged for support for Israel.
Related Stories
…
…
Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-Ala.) also criticized the decision, labeling it “ridiculous” and expressing full support for Israel.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) criticized the U.S. for intervening in Israel’s military operations along its borders.
Some Republicans Consider Impeachment
Senator Tom Cotton (R-Ark.) suggested House Republicans should consider impeaching President Biden based on possible similarities with the impeachment of President Trump in 2019.
Senator Cotton’s impeachment premise focused on allegations against President Trump for withholding military aid from Ukraine to further his political interests.
Senator Rubio responded with interest to Senator Cotton’s suggestion.
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) supported President Biden’s decision, emphasizing the high civilian casualties in Gaza and the need to address the humanitarian crisis.
Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) welcomed the decision to pause weapon deliveries to Israel, echoing concerns over civilian casualties in Rafah.
Ongoing Debate
Senator John Fetterman (D-Pa.) disagreed with the decision to halt weapons delivery to Israel, emphasizing the need to support Israel without conditions during conflicts with adversaries like Hamas.
Israeli officials have indicated readiness to continue military operations despite the pause in certain U.S. lethal aid.
Prime Minister Netanyahu reaffirmed Israel’s determination to achieve its wartime goals, even if it means standing alone.
Mr. Fetterman maintained his stance, arguing that he has not witnessed any behavior on Israel’s part justifying imposing conditions during the conflict.
