Senate Blocks Resolutions to Halt U.S. Arms Sales to Israel Amidst Rising Democratic Frustration

The U.S. Senate blocked resolutions to stop a $450 million arms sale to Israel, reflecting bipartisan support for the ally. However, a growing Democratic caucus, led by Senator Bernie Sanders, expressed concern over the civilian impact of Israeli strikes. The resolutions aimed to halt sales of bulldozers and bombs.

The U.S. Senate voted on Wednesday to block two resolutions that sought to stop the sale of $450 million in bombs and bulldozers to Israel. Amidst overwhelming Republican support and a few Democrats crossing the aisle, the resolution was effectively halted, a move that aligns with President Donald Trump's backing of Israel.

The resolutions, introduced by Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont, cited concerns over humanitarian impacts as they sought to prohibit a $295 million deal involving bulldozers and a $151.8 million sale of bombs. Despite Sanders' arguments that these sales violated foreign assistance criteria, the measures were overwhelmingly defeated in a bipartisan vote.

The blocked resolutions signal a continuing trend of strong U.S. support for Israel, despite a notable rise in Democratic resistance. The Trump administration had previously circumvented normal congressional oversight by declaring an emergency to expedite military transfers, underlining the complexities of U.S.-Israeli relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)