Sanders Demands End to U.S. Military Assistance to Israel

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United States Senator Bernie Sanders has publicly called for an immediate end to all American military aid to Israel, citing what he describes as ongoing human rights violations in Gaza and the West Bank. His remarks intensify a growing debate over Washington’s continued support for the Israeli government amid the long-standing conflict with Hamas.

In a post on the social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Sanders wrote in all caps: “NO MORE MILITARY AID TO ISRAEL.” The senator, known for his progressive views, accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of enabling violence not just in Gaza but also in the West Bank, referencing the fatal beating of a young American citizen by Israeli settlers. “Netanyahu’s atrocities are not limited to Gaza,” he said. “He has also unleashed terrorist settlers in the West Bank who attack civilians and recently beat a young American to death.”

The reference appears to align with comments made by Mike Huckabee, former United States Ambassador during the Trump administration, who condemned the act. “It is an act of terror, and it is a crime,” Huckabee stated. “Those who carry out acts of terror and violence in Taybeh or anywhere should be prosecuted, not merely reprimanded.”

Senator Sanders also reiterated his belief that Netanyahu should be held accountable under international law. Last week, he reminded the public that the International Criminal Court (ICC) has indicted the Israeli Prime Minister for war crimes, alleging systematic killing and starvation of civilians in Gaza. “These war crimes continue to this day,” Sanders said in a video message shared on X.

He went on to accuse Netanyahu’s government of causing over 57,000 Palestinian deaths and wounding nearly 135,000 more, stating that a majority of the casualties are women, children, and the elderly. While these numbers have not been independently verified by U.S. sources, they are consistent with figures cited by international aid groups active in the region.

Sanders’ statements have sparked renewed discussion in American political circles over the nature of U.S.-Israel relations, especially regarding foreign aid and defense partnerships. While the senator’s position remains controversial, his remarks underline a broader shift in how some policymakers approach America’s longstanding alliance with Israel.