- September 18, 2025
- 12:35 pm
- Brief news
Statement by Bernie Sanders
On September 18, 2023, Senator Bernie Sanders from Vermont described Israel’s actions in Gaza as beyond self-defense and characterized them as a large-scale war against the Palestinians.
Genocide and Scale of Violence
Sanders became the first U.S. senator to accuse Israel of genocide. In his address, he noted that the escalation of the conflict began on October 7 with an attack by Hamas militants. This incident led to the death of approximately 1,200 people and the capture of about 250 hostages.
Israel, he said, has the right to respond to aggression from Hamas. However, over time, the actions of the Israeli authorities, according to the senator, have gone beyond necessary defense.
“Over the past two years, these actions have transformed into a full-scale war against the Palestinian population,” he said.
International Experts and UN Findings
Sanders drew attention to the findings of an independent UN commission and the conclusion of international experts on September 16, which claims the “presence of genocide in Gaza.” The senator supported these findings, adding:
“The intention is clear, and the conclusion is unequivocal: Israel is committing genocide in Gaza.”
Political Accusations
Among the main accusations against the Israeli government are accusations of conducting “ethnic cleansing in Gaza and the West Bank.” Support for such actions, according to Sanders, came from the administration of former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Interaction with Colleagues
The senator stated that he is trying to gain support from his Senate colleagues to propose seven resolutions aimed at stopping the sale of offensive weapons to Israel. The proposals include a call for an immediate ceasefire, the organization of humanitarian aid through the UN, and the creation of conditions for the formation of a Palestinian state. Sanders insists on the need for immediate action to resolve the dire humanitarian situation in the region.