Sen. Chris Murphy (D-Conn.) stated that the U.S. is not obligated to give a blank check to its allies after the Biden administration announced it would be reducing some bomb shipments to Israel.
Murphy disagreed with Sen. John Fetterman (D-Penn.) on CNN's “State of the Union” regarding aid to Israel. Fetterman had suggested that withholding military aid gives Hamas an advantage, but Murphy opposed that idea.
Murphy pointed out that the U.S. has no obligation to provide unlimited military support to its allies. He emphasized that the U.S. has the right to ensure that its partnerships with allies are effective for national security.
Murphy expressed concerns about the long-term impact of civilian casualties on terrorism and the threat Hamas poses to Israel. He stressed the need to prevent Hamas from attacking Israel in the future and the potential for increased recruitment due to civilian deaths.
Fetterman remains a strong supporter of Israel. a staunch supporter of Israel and has pushed against implementing conditions on aid to the country.
Murphy agreed with the Biden administration's decision to delay certain bomb shipments to Israel amid concerns about an impending invasion in Rafah, where a large number of civilians are seeking shelter.
Murphy emphasized that civilian casualties and humanitarian crises in Israel will ultimately strengthen Hamas, potentially leading to increased attacks on Israel and posing a threat to the U.S.