Preparatory to the Senate debate on the $14 billion aid to Israel, Sen. Peter Welch (VT-D) called for an “indefinite ceasefire … first and foremost to stop the bombing,” in a statement issued yesterday. “The ceasefire must be extended to ensure access to humanitarian relief to those who have been displaced, most of whom have no homes to return to. The Palestinian people, like all people, need access to clean water, food, medical care, and electricity.” He added that a debate is needed over “the manner in which such aid is provided,” saying he wants policies to ensure U.S. aid is only “used in ways that comply with international humanitarian law.”
He fully supported Israel’s right “to pursue those who ordered and carried out the attacks of October 7th. But Israel must not do so in a way that leads to massive civilian casualties and the large-scale destruction of civilian infrastructure in Gaza. This will only incite more enemies against Israel and the U.S. For this reason, the ceasefire must be extended indefinitely.”
