Bernie Sanders pushes resolutions to block US weapons sales to Israel

Key Points:

• Bernie Sanders plans to introduce resolutions in the Senate to block $151.8 million in bomb sales and $295 million in bulldozer sales to Israel, aiming to test Democratic support amid growing criticism of Israel's actions under Prime Minister Netanyahu.
• This marks Sanders' fourth attempt to halt military aid to Israel in the Senate, with previous efforts failing due to opposition from the Republican majority and many Democrats, though support among Senate Democrats appears to be increasing.
• Sanders criticized the Netanyahu government for "horrific and illegal behavior" and accused pro-Israel lobbying groups like Aipac of exerting undue influence on US politics, urging the Senate to listen more to constituents than wealthy donors.
• Progressive lawmakers in the House, including Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez and Ro Khanna, have voiced support for cutting off military aid to Israel, even opposing defensive systems like the Iron Dome, reflecting a shift in attitudes among some Democrats.
• Advocacy groups and protesters have intensified pressure on Democratic senators to support the resolutions, highlighting concerns over civilian casualties linked to the weapons and bulldozers sold to Israel, which have been used in operations causing significant destruction and displacement in Gaza, Lebanon, and the West Bank.