Nearly all senators, except for Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.), signed a resolution backing Israel against Hamas in the ongoing conflict. The resolution emphasizes the Senate’s support for Israel’s defense efforts and reaffirms Israel’s right to self-defense. It also urges the Biden administration to call for a cease-fire and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza.
Sen. Paul’s opposition to foreign aid, including aid to Israel, is well-known. He has previously placed holds on sending billions of dollars in aid to Israel and has blocked a vote on funding for the Iron Dome missile defense system. In a statement, Sen. Paul expressed his support for Israel’s defense and the prevention of a nuclear Iran.
Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and a bipartisan group of senators recently visited Israel, meeting with Israeli President Isaac Herzog. Upon their return, Sen. Schumer pledged to quickly move aid to Israel, including military, intelligence, and humanitarian assistance. He also mentioned working with the White House on an emergency spending bill. The Senate Foreign Relations Committee has scheduled a confirmation hearing for former Treasury Secretary Jack Lew, President Biden’s nominee for ambassador to Israel.
However, Sen. Paul’s stance on the matter remains unclear as he has not issued a public comment. The Epoch Times has reached out to his office for further information.
(Reuters contributed to this report.)