Van Hollen Statement on Biden Administration Pause on Offensive Weapons to Netanyahu Government

Van Hollen Statement on Biden Administration Pause on Offensive Weapons to Netanyahu Government

Today, U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.) released the following statement regarding the Biden Administration's pause on the transfer of certain offensive weapons to the Netanyahu government:

"As I've said time and again - a just war must be fought justly. That's why I have repeatedly urged the Biden Administration to pause the transfer of offensive weapons to the Netanyahu government until we ensure U.S. taxpayer-funded support is used in line with American interests and values. President Biden has made clear that an invasion of Rafah is a 'red line' that should not be crossed because it will result in huge civilian casualties and make a desperate humanitarian situation even worse. We should use the tools available to us to enforce the President's objectives and U.S. policy. That is why I strongly support the Biden Administration's decision to pause the transfer of offensive weapons, including 2,000-pound bombs. I will continue to urge the President to use our leverage to ensure U.S. security assistance is being used in a manner that reflects American values and goals. A partnership must be a two-way street, not a one-way blank check."