Sanders calls Israel’s siege on Gaza ‘a serious violation of international law’

Sanders calls Israel’s siege on Gaza ‘a serious violation of international law’

Sen. Bernie Sanders slammed the Israeli government Wednesday, accusing the country of violating international law after Israeli leaders said they would cut electricity and deny food to Gaza in response to the devastating Hamas-led incursion over the weekend that left hundreds of Israeli civilians dead.

“The targeting of civilians is a war crime, no matter who does it. Israel’s blanket denial of food, water, and other necessities to Gaza is a serious violation of international law and will do nothing but harm innocent civilians,” Sanders (I-Vt.) said in a statement Wednesday.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said Monday that Israel planned to launch “a complete siege” of Gaza — where more than 2 million people live — in the wake of the deadly attack Saturday morning.

U.S. leaders quickly rushed to Israel’s side in the wake of the attack. In a speech hours after Hamas launched its initial assault, President Joe Biden repeatedly declared that the U.S. “stands with Israel” and will never “fail to have their back.” On Tuesday, Biden doubled down on that message, railing against the “sheer evil,” of the attack and calling on Congress to swiftly “fund the national security requirements of our critical partners.”

At least 14 Americans were among those killed in Israel, Biden said, and Americans are among the hostages taken by Hamas.

“The United States has rightly offered solidarity and support to Israel in responding to Hamas’ attack. But we must also insist on restraint from Israeli forces attacking Gaza and work to secure UN humanitarian access,” Sanders said. “Let us not forget that half of the 2 million people in Gaza are children. Children and innocent people do not deserve to be punished for the acts of Hamas.”