Progressives Demand US Arms Embargo After Israel's Strike on Qatar

Progressives Urge U.S. Arms Embargo After Israel Bombs Qatar A growing chorus of progressive lawmakers is calling for a halt to U.S. arms shipments to Israel following the country's latest military strike, which targeted the Qatari capital Doha on Tuesday. Rep. Summer Lee, D-Pa., was among those who expressed outrage over the attack, saying, "In the past two years, Israel has bombed nation after nation with no repercussions all while conducting a genocide and manufacturing a famine in Gaza using U.S. taxpayer dollars." Lee's comments were made during a congressional hearing on antisemitism last week. According to officials from both countries, Israel provided advance warning of the strike to the Trump administration, which has been a key supporter of the Israeli government. The attack marked the sixth country targeted by Israel this year, with previous strikes taking place in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza. The U.S. provides billions of dollars in military aid to Israel each year, fueling criticism from progressive lawmakers who argue that such support enables Israel's aggressive actions. "There must be accountability for Israel's unbridled aggression," Lee said. However, not all lawmakers share this view. Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., defended the U.S.-Israel alliance, saying, "Our relationship with Israel is a cornerstone of our foreign policy in the Middle East." Graham noted that the U.S. and Israel have a long history of cooperation on security issues. The debate over U.S. arms shipments to Israel has been ongoing for years, with some lawmakers arguing that such support undermines efforts to promote peace in the region. The latest attack is likely to reignite this debate, with progressive lawmakers pushing for a more critical examination of U.S.-Israel relations. As the situation continues to unfold, it remains unclear what actions the Trump administration will take next. However, one thing is certain: the U.S.-Israel relationship is at a crossroads, and the future of military aid to Israel hangs in the balance. Background: The U.S. has provided billions of dollars in military aid to Israel each year for decades, with the current annual package totaling $3.8 billion. This support includes funding for Israeli missile defense systems, fighter jets, and other military equipment. Context: The latest attack on Qatar is part of a broader pattern of Israeli aggression in the region. In recent years, Israel has bombed targets in Lebanon, Syria, and Gaza, often with little or no consequences from the international community. Additional Perspectives: "We must re-examine our relationship with Israel and consider alternative approaches to promoting peace in the Middle East," said Rep. Lee. "Our alliance with Israel is a vital component of our national security strategy, and we will continue to support their efforts to defend themselves against threats from Iran and other adversaries," said Sen. Graham. Current Status: The situation remains fluid, with ongoing diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating tensions in the region. The U.S. and Israeli governments have yet to comment on next steps, but it is clear that the debate over U.S.-Israel relations will continue to be a major focus of attention in the coming weeks and months. Next Developments: The U.S. Congress is expected to hold hearings on the latest attack and its implications for U.S.-Israel relations. Lawmakers from both parties are likely to weigh in on the issue, with some pushing for a more critical examination of military aid to Israel. *Reporting by Theintercept.*