Senator Bernie Sanders has strongly criticized the Israeli government’s response to the recent Hamas-led incursion, accusing Israel of violating international law. The condemnation comes after Israeli leaders announced their intention to cut off electricity and withhold food supplies from Gaza as a response to the devastating attack over the weekend, which resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Israeli civilians.
International Law Violation and Civilian Targeting
Sanders, who represents Vermont as an Independent, denounced the targeting of civilians as a war crime, emphasizing that it is unacceptable regardless of who commits it. He criticized Israel’s decision to block essential supplies, including food and water, from reaching Gaza, asserting that it constitutes a serious violation of international law and will harm innocent civilians.
Israel’s Planned “Complete Siege” of Gaza
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant revealed Israel’s intentions to impose a “complete siege” on Gaza, home to over 2 million people. This decision followed the deadly attack initiated by Hamas on a Saturday morning.
U.S. Support for Israel
In the aftermath of the attack, U.S. leaders swiftly expressed support for Israel. President Joe Biden, in a speech delivered shortly after Hamas’ initial assault, reiterated the United States’ unwavering support for Israel, emphasizing that the U.S. will always stand with its ally. Biden labeled the attack as “sheer evil” and urged Congress to promptly allocate funding to meet the national security needs of critical partners.
Americans Among the Victims and Hostages
President Biden revealed that at least 14 Americans were among those killed in Israel as a result of the attack. Additionally, Americans were taken hostage by Hamas during the incident.
Sanders’ Call for Restraint and Humanitarian Access
While recognizing the U.S.’s solidarity with Israel in responding to the Hamas attack, Senator Sanders called for restraint on the part of Israeli forces conducting operations in Gaza. He also emphasized the need to secure United Nations humanitarian access to the region. Sanders pointed out that half of Gaza’s population, which amounts to 2 million people, are children and innocent civilians who should not suffer due to the actions of Hamas.
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