The White House is considering a potential plan to send $1 billion in arms to Israel, including tank ammunition and mortar rounds. This decision comes after a pause on a shipment of large bombs to Israel due to concerns about civilian casualties in Gaza. The Israeli military has intensified its operations in northern Gaza and parts of Rafah in the south, leading to an estimated 600,000 people fleeing the southern city in just the past week.
Democratic Congressman Jamal Bowman of New York, vice chair of the Congressional Progressive Caucus, expressed disappointment in the arms deal, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza with over a million people facing starvation and thousands killed, mostly women and children. He emphasized the urgent need for a permanent ceasefire and peace in the region.
Bowman highlighted concerns about the impact of the conflict on his district, mentioning a Republican super PAC spending $1.9 million against him for advocating for peace in Gaza. He stressed the importance of delivering food aid to Gaza, securing the release of hostages, and working towards a free Palestine.
Regarding the arms deal, Bowman stated that the line had been crossed and called for immediate action to achieve peace and self-determination in the region. He expressed worries about a potential regional conflict and emphasized the need for diplomacy and shared humanity to prevail.
