Bernie Sanders Challenges US Arms Sales to Israel Amid Rising Middle East Tensions and International Diplomacy Efforts
Bernie Sanders aims to block $20 billion in US arms sales to Israel amid Gaza crisis. US diplomat efforts focus on Middle East peace and Ukraine conflict.
Bernie Sanders is introducing resolutions to block over $20 billion in US arms sales to Israel, citing the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. This move, though unlikely to pass in the politically divided Senate, aims to challenge Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's military actions. Meanwhile, the Israel-Hamas war's one-year anniversary nears, with casualties mounting.
On another front, US Senator John Kennedy from Louisiana has faced backlash for anti-Arab remarks during a Senate hearing on hate crimes. He accused Arab American civil rights leader Maya M. Berry of supporting Hamas and Hezbollah, allegations she firmly denied. This hearing, convened by Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, underscores the rise in hate crimes against minority groups, including recent tragic incidents like the fatal stabbing of 6-year-old Palestinian American Wadee Alfayoumi.
In response to these heightened tensions, senior diplomats from the United States, Britain, Germany, France, and Italy will gather in Paris to address the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East and Ukraine. US Secretary of State Antony Blinken, fresh from discussing a potential Gaza truce in Cairo, will be joining to support mediation efforts by Egypt, Qatar, and the USA. The group’s agenda includes not only Middle East peace but also a focus on the ongoing war in Ukraine.
Shifting gears to aviation, Emirates will soon introduce its refurbished Boeing 777s on routes to six U.S. cities starting from November 2024. These retrofitted aircraft will offer updated Business Class seats and expanded Premium Economy options, reaching destinations like Chicago, Boston, and Miami via Bogota. This enhanced four-class configuration is part of Emirates' extensive network expansion, which also includes Latin American destinations.
Back in the United Nations, Saudi Arabia has endorsed a resolution calling for an end to Israel's occupation of Palestinian Territories. The resolution, which received 124 votes in favor, calls for Israel to withdraw its military forces and cease settlement activities, reflecting the advisory opinion of the International Court of Justice. This action signifies a strong international response against what is deemed an unlawful occupation.
In economic news, Italian companies are showing keen interest in Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030, with plans for expansive investments announced during the Saudi-Italian Business Forum in Riyadh. Attended by Italian Ambassador Carlo Balducci, the forum highlighted the economic significance of Lombardy and potential collaborations in areas such as logistics, infrastructure, and digital technologies. This promising venture underscores the strengthening of bilateral trade and economic ties.