Senator Bernie Sanders of the United States Senate asserted that the United States is complicit in the nightmare endured by the Palestinian people. His statement coincided with a growing chorus of criticisms within the Senate directed at the stance of the Israeli Prime Minister, Benjamin Netanyahu.
During a speech to the Senate, Sanders articulated his bewilderment as to why Congress has not acted to halt the suffering of Palestinians and address the humanitarian crisis they face in Gaza. He stated that the United States is complicit in the tragedy affecting millions of Palestinians.
Senator Elizabeth Warren, from the Democratic Party, described Netanyahu’s rejection of a Palestinian state in any post-war arrangements as “dangerous.” She pointed out that this refusal contradicts longstanding U.S. policy.
Warren reaffirmed that Washington supports a two-state solution because it is the only path to ensuring peace, security, and dignity for Israelis and Palestinians alike.
Criticisms towards Netanyahu
Netanyahu’s announcement that he had informed President Joe Biden’s administration of his rejection of a Palestinian state post-Gaza war has sparked a wave of sharp criticisms within Congress.
Senator Chris Murphy, a Democrat, warned that Netanyahu’s opposition to a Palestinian state could complicate the Senate’s approval of aid packages for Israel.
Meanwhile, Senator Peter Welch, also a Democrat, stated that Netanyahu does not share the United States’ concerns regarding the loss of Palestinian lives. He further noted that Netanyahu’s rejection to establish a Palestinian state reveals his intention to take American money while disregarding its advice.
Senator Tammy Duckworth described Netanyahu’s statements as alarming, and Senator Brian Schatz opined that Netanyahu is mistaken and complicating matters for Israel’s future.
Biden’s Patience
The Israeli newspaper “Yedioth Ahronoth” reported that Biden’s patience is wearing thin due to Netanyahu’s actions which cause frustration in the White House and a sense that he is not prioritizing the return of prisoners.
The publication cited American administration officials’ frustration due to the length of the Gaza war and Netanyahu’s refusal to discuss the aftermath.
It also stated that American officials have advised Biden to publicize his lack of confidence in Netanyahu, for extending the war due to personal motives and his willingness to prolong it despite concerns for the lives of the prisoners. Furthermore, officials have suggested that Biden openly distance himself from Netanyahu, asserting his loss of faith in him while affirming trust in Israel and its people, according to the newspaper.
