WASHINGTON: Scores of Democrats in the US House of Representatives on Friday urged President Joe Biden to consider halting arms sales to Israel if it does not change the conduct of its military operation in Gaza.
In a letter delivered to the White House on Friday, 88 Democratic members of Congress voiced “serious concerns” regarding Israel’s actions in Gaza, particularly its deliberate withholding of humanitarian aid. The lawmakers highlighted the impact of Israel’s restrictions on US-backed humanitarian aid delivery, which they argued has contributed to an “unprecedented humanitarian catastrophe” in the region.
Citing the US Agency for International Development, the letter urged Biden to convey to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu the importance of facilitating aid delivery to Gaza. Democrats warned that any impediment to such assistance could jeopardize Israel’s eligibility for further US offensive security assistance.
While the lawmakers emphasized the necessity of continuing to provide defensive funding, particularly for systems like the Iron Dome missile defense system, they called for a reevaluation of offensive security assistance in light of the ongoing crisis.
Signatories of the letter included Democrats serving on the House Armed Services Committee and the Foreign Affairs Committee.
The move comes amid growing criticism of Biden’s handling of the conflict, with protestors disrupting university campuses across the US and capturing media attention. The letter underscores the mounting pressure on Biden to recalibrate US policy toward Israel, particularly as he approaches a potential reelection bid.
Biden’s unwavering support for Israel has drawn criticism from some quarters, prompting calls for a more assertive approach to address the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
