Israel is Annexing the West Bank - End Military Aid Now!

I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing U.S. military aid to Israel, especially in light of recent actions that have escalated tensions and resulted in significant human rights violations in the occupied Palestinian territories. On February 24, 2025, Democracy Now! reported that Israel deployed tanks into the West Bank for the first time in two decades, leading to the displacement of over 40,000 Palestinians. Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz announced that residents of the Jenin, Tulkarm, and Nur Shams refugee camps would not be permitted to return to their homes. Such actions contribute to a “de facto annexation” of Palestinian lands, undermining prospects for peace and stability in the region. Despite these developments, the U.S. continues to provide substantial military assistance to Israel. In February 2025, the U.S. State Department announced plans to sell over $7.4 billion in weapons to Israel, including thousands of bombs and missiles. This package comprises $6.75 billion in munitions, guidance kits, and other related equipment, as well as $660 million in Hellfire missiles. The proposed sale is intended to enhance Israel’s military capabilities, but it raises serious concerns about the potential for further escalation and civilian harm in the region. Furthermore, recent policy changes have raised concerns about accountability. On February 24, 2025, Reuters reported that the Trump administration rescinded National Security Memorandum-20, a directive that required the U.S. to report potential international law violations involving U.S.-supplied weapons by allies, including Israel. This action diminishes oversight and potentially implicates the U.S. in violations of international law. (https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-state-department-approves-military-sales-worth-74-billion-israel-2025-02-07/?utm_source=chatgpt.com) The continuation of unconditional military aid, coupled with the lack of stringent oversight, not only contravenes international human rights standards but also undermines the moral standing of the United States on the global stage. In light of these concerns, I urge you to: 1. Suspend all military aid to Israel until there is verifiable compliance with international human rights laws and a cessation of activities that contribute to the displacement and oppression of Palestinian communities. 2. Reinstate and strengthen mechanisms for oversight and accountability, ensuring that U.S. foreign assistance does not support or facilitate human rights violations. 3. Promote diplomatic initiatives that encourage a just and lasting peace between Israelis and Palestinians, grounded in respect for human rights and international law. As an elected representative, you have the responsibility to ensure that U.S. foreign policy reflects our nation’s commitment to justice, human rights, and the rule of law. I trust you will take these concerns seriously and act accordingly.