2LT International News

WASHINGTON, DC – A coalition of 29 U.S. senators, spanning both parties, introduced a resolution on Thursday calling on the Trump administration to push for an immediate end to Israel’s blockade of the Gaza Strip, citing dire humanitarian conditions and the need for renewed diplomacy in the region.

The resolution, led by Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) and co-sponsored by prominent Democrats and Republicans, urges the U.S. to “leverage its diplomatic influence” to secure the lifting of restrictions on the movement of people and goods in and out of Gaza. The measure highlights the severe shortages of food, clean water, medical supplies, and electricity in the Palestinian territory.

“The humanitarian crisis in Gaza is unsustainable and morally indefensible. The U.S. must use its influence to ensure that innocent civilians, half of whom are children, have access to basic necessities. This blockade only fuels desperation and instability,” Sander said Thursday.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-MD) said, “This is not about taking sides—it’s about addressing a humanitarian catastrophe. The blockade has failed to bring security for Israel while inflicting immense suffering on Palestinians. There’s a better way forward.”

• Sen. Todd Young (R-IN), one of the Republican co-sponsor added: “A stable Gaza is in the security interests of both Israel and the U.S. Easing restrictions, with proper safeguards, could help weaken extremism and create conditions for peace.”

Background and Reactions

Israel and Egypt have maintained a strict blockade on Gaza since Hamas seized control in 2007, citing security concerns. While Israel permits limited aid shipments, U.N. agencies warn that Gaza’s economy has collapsed, with unemployment near 50% and most residents reliant on international assistance.

The White House has not yet commented on the resolution, which faces an uncertain path in the GOP-led Senate. Pro-Israel advocacy groups have pushed back, arguing that lifting the blockade without dismantling Hamas’ military capabilities would endanger Israeli civilians.

“While humanitarian concerns are important, any changes to Gaza policy must ensure Hamas cannot exploit openings to arm itself for further attacks,” the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC) said in a statement.

Meanwhile, human rights organizations applauded the Senate effort. Omar Shakir of Human Rights Watch said: “This resolution recognizes that collective punishment of Gaza’s population is unlawful and counterproductive. The U.S. should finally take a stand against these unjust restrictions.”

What’s Next?

The resolution is non-binding but adds to growing political pressure on the issue. It comes as the Trump administration prepares to unveil its Middle East peace plan, which is expected to focus heavily on economic measures for Palestinians.

With Congress divided over U.S. policy toward Israel and Palestine, the resolution’s bipartisan backing marks a rare moment of alignment, one that could shape future debates over aid and diplomacy in the region.