Washington, D.C. — Today, Secretary of State Antony Blinken issued a report that criticized Israel’s conduct in Gaza but stopped short of finding that Israel violated the conditions for its use of U.S. weapons. In response, Patrick Gaspard, president and CEO of the Center for American Progress, issued the following statement:
It’s hard to believe that the administration sees what’s happening in Gaza yet fails to conclude that Israel has violated the terms for use of American weapons. There is overwhelming evidence that Israeli forces have violated international law through indiscriminate bombing that has killed thousands of civilians. The Netanyahu government has also repeatedly impeded the flow of aid, provoking a humanitarian crisis.
President Joe Biden has made the right choice to withhold lethal weapons, but this decision cannot be made on an ad hoc basis. The administration must ensure this decision is made in accordance with its own policies and U.S. law—including clear requirements to withhold lethal aid from partners that violate international law. Millions of lives in Gaza, the safety of hostages, and hopes for regional peace depend on the strength of the administration’s commitment to restrict the transfer of lethal weapons.
For more information or to speak with an expert, please contact Sam Hananel at [email protected].