SPRINGFIELD-Sens. Sanders and Welch, as well as Rep. Balint, are seeking to block offensive arms sales to Israel, a democratic ally.
Public sentiment is increasingly wary of continuous U.S. arms support to Israel, especially as concerns grow about civilian casualties in Gaza. These concerns are understandable. But cutting or conditioning U.S. aid would not stop Hamas' violence - it would risk empowering it.
This war did not begin with Israel. It began when Hamas, a ruthless terrorist organization, brutally murdered 1,300 innocent people and dragged 250 hostages into captivity. Hamas continues to hold men, women, and children in its tunnels while firing rockets at Israeli cities. It deliberately targets civilians and hides behind innocent Gazans.
Weakening Israel's ability to defend itself or pressure Hamas will not bring those hostages home - it will prolong their suffering.
If the U.S. restricts arms, Hamas will claim a propaganda victory, embolden its Iranian backers, and be more likely to strike again.
Yes, civilian suffering in Gaza is heartbreaking, and Israel should be held to the highest standards. However, Israel's fight is not only for its own survival against Hamas but also Hezbollah and Iran, as well as the security and stability of the region.
Undermining Israel's security only strengthens Hamas, does nothing to stop Hamas's aggression, destabilizes the Middle East, jeopardizes U.S. interests, and makes the world less safe.
For these reasons, limiting arms sales is the wrong course.
Martin Cohn
Springfield
This letter to the editor was submitted to The Commons.
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