Pro-Palestinian protesters confront US representatives over Israel aid bill
Activists confront US politicians who backed the bill, accusing them of supporting genocide in Gaza. The US House of Representatives passed an aid package with about $17bn for Israel.
Some question billions in US aid to Israel as it attacks Gaza
US Representative Joaquin Castro raised concerns during the House vote to send billions in military assistance to the Netanyahu government, questioning moves by the Israeli leader.
“His actions have not led to the release of the remaining hostages. He’s ignored the pleas of the families of hostages. He’s ignored the pleas of the president of the United States. He’s ignored his own people. He’s engaged in self-preservation. We should not be sending offensive weapons to Israel right now,” said Castro.
Edward Ahmed Mitchell, from the Council on American-Islamic Relations, said the vote is a missed opportunity to rein in the Israeli onslaught on Gaza.
“This has taken away any leverage President Biden might have to Netanyahu to pull back on invading Rafah or killing more innocent people,” he said.
Most Americans do not want our government to write a blank check for Netanyahu’s war in Gaza.
We support achieving a ceasefire that allows hostages to be freed, humanitarian aid to be delivered, and peace talks to begin.
My statement with others who voted NO on HR 8034: pic.twitter.com/B3URNg5EYv
— Joaquin Castro (@JoaquinCastrotx) April 20, 2024
Hamas says US military aid to Israel ‘green light’ for Gaza ‘aggression’
The group condemned the US House of Representatives’ approval of more than $17bn in new military aid to Israel.
“This support, which violates international law, is a licence and a green light for the Zionist extremist government to continue the brutal aggression against our people,” Hamas said in a statement.
