WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Chris Coons (D-Del.) issued the following statement in regards to U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders’ (I-Vt.) privileged resolution about U.S. aid to Israel:
“I am opposed to the Sanders resolution that would require the U.S. State Department — in 30 days — to produce a comprehensive review of Israel’s actions since 2018 and directly put at risk ongoing U.S. support for Israel while they are at war with Hamas. I am deeply concerned about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza and continue to fight for humanitarian assistance for Gazans in desperate need of lifesaving aid. I am also concerned about how Israel is conducting the campaign in Gaza. Hamas began this conflict with a horrifying terrorist attack on October 7 and continues to hold hostages, but that does not mean we can ignore the tragic suffering of Palestinian civilians. The Israeli military should be shifting to a more targeted campaign against Hamas in Gaza and doing more to protect civilians, as the Israeli government has pledged to do.
“I will continue raising these issues directly with Israeli officials and the Biden administration. I do not, however, believe that risking the suspension of all U.S. assistance or publicly rebuking Israel in a way that could embolden its enemies will address these concerns, nor will it improve the humanitarian situation.”
Senator Coons is a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee.