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US Senate (archive)
Left-wing members of the US Senate, accusing President Joe Biden’s administration of “complicity” in committing “atrocities” in the Gaza Strip, failed in a voting session on Wednesday to block a deal sell arms to “Israel”.
A series of proposals were voted to prevent the Pentagon from sending Israel a new arms package worth $20 billion.
But all these proposals fell in the vote, because a large number of senators showed “strong support for Israel,” the historic ally of the United States, which is still committing genocide in Gaza with American weapons.
The campaign was launched by Independent Senator Bernie Sanders, who, in a speech he delivered in the Senate, denounced ”the total war carried out by the Israeli government, led by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, against the Palestinian people.”
The left-wing senator emphasized that “millions of people are suffering from extreme poverty in Gaza, who have been driven from their homes,” pointing to “thousands of children who today are suffering from famine and malnutrition. “
Sanders emphasized that “the United States is involved in all these atrocities, because Washington finances these atrocities, and this problem must end.” “
Sanders also directly criticized some of his colleagues, saying: “A lot of you come here to talk about human rights and what’s happening in the world, but I want to tell you that nobody really you anymore.”
He said: “You will be told: You care about China, Russia and Iran, why are you funding starving children in Gaza?”
Meanwhile, Republican Senator Mitch McConnell defended this military deal, saying that breaking it “will only strengthen and encourage Hamas and Hezbollah.”
Yesterday, two American officials revealed to the Times of Israel that President Biden’s administration is pressuring Democratic senators to vote against legislation proposed by many of the party’s most progressive members, which would ban on arms shipments worth more than $20 billion to Israel”.
With the support of America, Israel has been carrying out an attack against Gaza and Lebanon since October 7, 2023, which has left tens of thousands killed and wounded.
Also read: American military stores in “Israel”… their history and role in the war of destruction
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2024-11-21 07:10:00
Here are two PAA-related questions for the given news interview:
## World Today News Interview: The Arms Deal and Gaza
**Introduction:** Today, we’re discussing the recent US Senate vote regarding a $20 billion arms sale to Israel amidst the ongoing conflict in Gaza. Joining us are political analyst Dr. Emily Carter and human rights advocate, Mr. David Cohen.
**I. The Senate Vote and its Implications:**
**Host:** Dr. Carter, the US Senate narrowly rejected efforts to block this arms sale. What are your thoughts on this outcome, particularly given the strong opposition voiced by some Democrats?
**Dr. Carter:**
**(Discussion points: Reasons behind the vote, potential political calculations, impact on US-Israel relations, significance of bipartisan support for Israel.)**
**Host:** Mr. Cohen, while acknowledging Israel’s right to self-defense, many expressed concerns that these weapons could be used to further exacerbate the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. How do you view the arguments put forward by those opposing the arms deal?
**Mr. Cohen:**
**(Discussion points: Humanitarian impact of the conflict, potential for civilian casualties, role of international law, responsibility of arms supplying countries.)**
**II. The Moral Dimensions of Arms Sales:**
**Host:** Senator Bernie Sanders, who spearheaded the opposition effort, strongly criticized US complicity in what he termed “atrocities” in Gaza. Do you agree with his characterization, and how should the US balance its commitment to human rights with its security interests?
**Dr. Carter:**
**(Discussion points: Defining “complicity,” ethical considerations in arms sales, potential consequences of inaction, balancing national interests with moral obligations.)**
**Host:** Mr. Cohen, what are the potential long-term consequences of continuing to supply arms to Israel without stricter conditions or accountability measures?
**Mr. Cohen:**
**(Discussion points: Arms control mechanisms, potential for escalation, deepening the cycle of violence, importance of promoting peaceful solutions.)**
**III. The Role of Public Opinion and Future Action:**
**Host:** This debate has sparked considerable public discourse. Dr. Carter, to what extent do you think public pressure can influence US foreign policy decisions, particularly in a case as complex as this?
**Dr. Carter:**
**(Discussion points: Impact of activism and advocacy, media coverage and public awareness, role of lobby groups, potential for changing the political landscape.)**
**Host:** Mr. Cohen, what steps can be taken, both domestically and internationally, to promote a more just and sustainable resolution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict?
**Mr. Cohen:**
**(Discussion points: Importance of dialog and diplomacy, role of international organizations, need for accountability and justice, promoting peaceful coexistence.)**
**IV. Conclusion:**
**Host:** Thank you both for your insightful perspectives on this complex and pressing issue. This discussion highlights the difficult choices and moral dilemmas faced by policymakers when navigating international conflict and arms sales. As the situation in Gaza continues to unfold, it remains crucial to engage in thoughtful and nuanced dialog to seek a path towards lasting peace and justice.
