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.”