Sanders Calls for US to End Military Assistance to Israel, Citing ‘Shameful’ Complicity in Gaza
Senator Bernie Sanders (I-Vt.) on Sunday condemned the ceaseless and horrific suffering inflicted on Gaza’s population by the Israeli military with American weapons, calling the U.S. role “shameful” and illegal under international law. Sanders announced he will introduce a resolution next week aimed at stopping U.S. military aid to Israel, according to Anadolu. He criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. President Donald Trump for a “disastrous war” with Iran.
Sanders highlighted the staggering toll: 2 million people affected, with more than 72,000 Palestinians killed and over 170,000 wounded—the majority women, children, and the elderly. He noted that Israel had no right to damage or destroy over 90% of housing units in Gaza, leaving most of the population sleeping in tents. The impact on children is severe: 91% of school-age children lack sustained access to in-person education, and 93% of school buildings require major reconstruction or rehabilitation.
“We have funneled tens of billions of dollars in military aid to an Israeli government that has consistently violated international law and whose leader is a war criminal,” Sanders wrote. His remarks come amid broader regional tensions. Initial attacks prompted retaliatory measures from Tehran and significant disruptions to maritime traffic through the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Despite a ceasefire declaration on April 17—later extended through May 17—Israeli Defense Forces continue daily offensive operations in Lebanese territory. Last Thursday, a strike on Gaza’s only Catholic Church drew a critical reaction from Trump, who phoned Netanyahu to voice his displeasure.
Sanders’ resolution represents a significant challenge to unconditional U.S. support for Israel, as he seeks to end American complicity in what he describes as illegal actions. The move underscores growing scrutiny of U.S. military assistance amid ongoing violence and humanitarian devastation.
Shimanta Das 
