Growing discontent as 36 Democrats back Bernie Sanders’ bid to block arms sales to Israel

© Maddy Grassy, AP
by FRANCE 24
April 16, 2026
2 min read

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36 Democrats supported Senator Bernie Sanders' failed effort to block US arms sales to Israel.

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Senator Bernie Sanders led a failed bid to block US arms sales to Israel, garnering support from 36 Democrats on Wednesday. This action reflects growing discontent among Democrats regarding Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Iran. Although the measures were opposed by Republicans and did not pass, the vote highlighted rising dissent within the Democratic Party. The effort signals increasing pressure on the Trump administration regarding its foreign policy in the Middle East.

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The measure to block US arms sales to Israel failed to pass in Congress.

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