Senator Bernie Sanders has called upon the Biden administration to take decisive action against Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s devastating military campaign in Gaza.
Sanders, known for his vocal criticism of the ultra-right-wing Israeli leader’s policies, emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian intervention as the holy month of Ramadan approaches.
Speaking on CBS’ Face the Nation only days after addressing the issue from the floor of the U.S. Senate, Sanders highlighted the unprecedented humanitarian crisis unfolding in Gaza, where hundreds of thousands of children face starvation amid relentless bombardment and restricted access to aid.
“The United States of America cannot be complicit in this mass slaughter of children,” Sanders declared during his Senate remarks, underscoring the moral imperative to address the dire situation in Gaza.
Sanders directly challenged the Biden administration’s support for Israel, asserting that continued military aid only perpetuates the cycle of violence.
The two-time Democratic presidential candidate emphasized the need to condition aid to Israel on tangible policy changes, particularly regarding the cessation of military operations that are killing children and the delivery of humanitarian assistance to Gaza.
“Year after year, we have provided billions of dollars in military aid to the Government of Israel,” Sanders stated on Face the Nation. “No more money to Netanyahu’s war machine to kill Palestinian children.”
Sanders also criticized the Biden administration’s approach to the Israel-Hamas conflict, urging a shift in policy to prioritize humanitarian concerns over political alliances. He highlighted the administration’s failure to effectively address Netanyahu’s actions, despite growing international condemnation.
“The administration can’t beg Netanyahu,” Sanders asserted. “You’ve got to tell him if you want any money, you’ve got to change your policy. Allow the trucks to come in to feed the children.”
Sanders’ remarks come amidst escalating tensions in the region, with President Biden expressing hope for a ceasefire coinciding with the start of Ramadan. However, talks have stalled, and the prospects for a resolution remain uncertain.
Progressives, including Sanders, have criticized the Biden administration’s handling of the crisis, calling for a more assertive stance against Israel’s actions.
Despite divisions within the progressive base, Sanders emphasized the stark contrast between Biden and the potential alternative, former President Donald Trump.
“The fight continues to change Biden’s policy in Gaza,” Sanders stated. “But the contrast between Biden and Trump is day and night.”
As Biden grapples with his administration’s approach to the Israel-Gaza conflict, Sanders’ outspoken advocacy adds to the pressure for a reassessment of U.S. support for the immoral actions of Netanyahu’s government and hold the ultra-right-wing Israeli coalition accountable.