Senate Democrats' bid to block $675 million Israeli arms deal fails

The Senate rejected two measures aimed at blocking over $675 million in arms sales to Israel. This vote occurred amidst growing Democratic disillusionment over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. The resolutions would have halted the sale of 5,000 bombs and related equipment, as well as tens of thousands of assault rifles. Senator Bernie Sanders initiated these votes as a leading critic of the Israeli government. A significant portion of Democrats, 27 in total, voted in favor of these embargoes, a notable increase from previous similar votes. This indicates a widening split within the Democratic party regarding U.S. support for Israel. Moderate Democrats, including Senator Jeanne Shaheen, are increasingly vocal about the violence and starvation in Gaza. Despite this growing opposition, a bipartisan majority in the Senate ultimately voted against blocking the arms sales. Every Republican senator voted to reject the resolutions. The majority of Democrats also sided with Republicans, demonstrating continued bipartisan support for arming Israel.