Senate Rejects Attempts to Curtail Israeli Military Aid

In a significant legislative move, the Senate overwhelmingly rejected resolutions aimed at restricting military aid to Israel, highlighting growing divisions within the Democratic Party. The first resolution, proposed by Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT), sought to block the sale of assault rifles to Israel and was defeated 27-70. A second resolution targeting $676 million in military assistance also failed, with a vote of 24-73. The votes reflect a shifting stance among Democrats, with 27 supporting the first resolution, up from 19 in November and 15 in April. Notably, Senator Jeanne Shaheen (D-NH), a key figure in the Foreign Relations Committee, backed the resolutions, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. "I cannot in good conscience support weapons until the human anguish in Gaza ends," she stated. Senator Jack Reed (D-RI), top Democrat on the Armed Services Committee, and Amy Klobuchar (D-MN), the third-ranking Senate Democrat, also voted in favor. However, three Democrats who supported the first resolution opposed the second, including Reed, Sheldon Whitehouse (D-RI), and Jon Ossoff (D-GA), who faced Republican criticism ahead of his reelection bid in Georgia. Republicans expressed concern over Gaza's food supply but did not join the Democratic vote, emphasizing their support for Israel's self-defense. The votes underscored the complex dynamics within the Senate as the conflict in Gaza approaches its 22nd month.

Published: 8/1/2025