J. Scott Applewhite
The
vote was held on three resolutions, introduced by Senator Bernie
Sanders.
The first resolution was supported by 18 lawmakers, while 79
others voted against it, the second was rejected by a 19-78 vote, and
the third received the support of only 17 members of the Senate.
The
resolutions urged to block the sale to Israel of additional Joint
Direct Attack Munitions (JDAMs) and enhanced JDAM receivers, tank
cartridges, 120-mm High Explosive mortar cartridges, and Modified
M1148A1P2 Medium Tactical Vehicles.
Sanders also called on to block the
sale of 50 new F-15IA aircraft, associated weapons and parts, and
upgrade kits for existing F-15 aircraft, according to the document.
Sanders has repeatedly stressed that arms sales to Israel violate the US laws.
He accused the Israeli government of violating international rules and
pointed out that it is illegal for the US to provide it with additional
weapons.
On
October 7, 2023, Israel was subjected to an unprecedented rocket attack
from the Gaza Strip. In addition, fighters of Palestinian movement
Hamas infiltrated the border areas, opened fire on the military and
civilians and took hostages.
Israeli authorities say that about 1,200
people were killed during the raid. In response, the Israel Defense
Forces launched Operation Iron Swords in the Gaza Strip and announced a
complete blockade of the enclave.
The death toll from the Israeli
attacks has surpassed 43,900 in the Gaza Strip, according to local
health authorities.
