- United States
- Md.
- Letter
Commending moral vote opposing arms sales enabling war crimes
To: Sen. Van Hollen
From: A verified voter in Huntingtown, MD
November 22
As a constituent, I am writing to express my gratitude for your principled vote in support of Senator Bernie Sanders' resolutions to block arms sales to Israel. By standing against the Biden administration's efforts to stifle dissent and enable Israel's brutal military assault on Gaza, you have shown courage and moral clarity. The disproportionate force used by the Israeli military against Palestinian civilians, including the bombing of residential areas and critical infrastructure, amounts to war crimes under international law. The United States must not continue arming and funding such atrocities. Your vote affirms that American values extend beyond narrow self-interest, and that human rights should be upheld consistently, regardless of strategic alliances. While this vote did not pass, the fact that nearly a fifth of the Senate opposed weapons transfers to Israel during active hostilities is highly significant. It signals growing discontent with the unconditional military aid that has long subsidized Israel's oppression of the Palestinian people. Your leadership on this issue gives voice to those appalled by the civilian suffering in Gaza and hope for a resolution grounded in justice and human dignity for all. I commend your moral courage in the face of intense pressure from the White House and pro-Israel lobbying groups. Dissenting votes like yours pave the way for a principled U.S. foreign policy that truly champions human rights and international law. Thank you for your steadfast commitment to these values. I urge you to continue advocating for an end to military assistance enabling war crimes and human rights abuses in Palestine and globally.