Members of Congress are set to vote on six joint resolution disapprovals that could block the sale of $20 billion worth of American offensive weapons to Israel. Amid ongoing conflict in the Middle East, concerns about the handling of the situation are growing. Senator Bernie Sanders and others are questioning America’s involvement in the war, particularly the supply of military weapons to Israel, using the Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs) as an example.
Legislation requires Congress to regulate the export of military weapons to ensure they are not used to violate international law. The Coalition for Palestine in Maine, along with Maine business owners and nonprofits, are urging Senator Susan Collins and Senator Angus King to support the resolutions. There are concerns about Israel’s use of American weapons in densely populated areas, resulting in civilian casualties.
The Israeli-Palestinian conflict has led to widespread suffering, with accusations against Israel for committing atrocities and violating international law. Calls to stop the violence and halt weapons sales have increased, with concerns about the impact on civilians caught in the crossfire. While Maine’s Jewish Community Alliance does not support the resolutions, there is a growing push for Senate members to reevaluate America’s involvement in the conflict and consider the consequences of continued arms sales to Israel.
As the conflict persists, there is a growing divide over the handling of the situation. The potential impact on Israel’s security and the US-Israel military relationship is also a point of contention. Ultimately, the resolutions would need to pass in both the House and Senate and be signed by the President to take effect. Senator King has indicated potential support for limiting offensive weapons going to Israel, but further discussions and decisions are pending.
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