Summary
The U.S. Senate voted on two measures, led by Senator Bernie Sanders, to block arms sales to Israel during ongoing conflicts in the region. Most Democrats supported the measures, but they failed due to Republican opposition. The votes highlight divisions within the Democratic Party over U.S. military aid to Israel.
Key Facts
- Senator Bernie Sanders introduced resolutions to block over $500 million in U.S. arms sales to Israel.
- One resolution aimed to stop $295 million worth of Caterpillar bulldozers being sent to Israel.
- The U.S. provides Israel with over $3.8 billion in annual military aid.
- The Senate voted with Republicans opposing and most Democrats supporting the measures.
- Only seven Senate Democrats voted against blocking the bulldozer sales to Israel.
- A Pew survey shows 60% of U.S. adults now view Israel unfavorably, up from 53% last year.
- Younger Americans in both parties tend to view Israel and its Prime Minister negatively.
- The votes are relevant ahead of the midterm elections, with Israel and military aid becoming key debate topics.
