I am writing to express my strong opposition to HR 8070. This bill, which proposes substantial aid to Israel, raises profound concerns about the ethical use of American taxpayer money, particularly in light of the ongoing humanitarian crisis and allegations of war crimes.
The United Nations has recently highlighted that over 50,000 Palestinian children in Gaza require immediate medical treatment due to acute malnutrition.
The situation is described as catastrophic, with residents facing extreme levels of hunger and deprivation. This humanitarian crisis is exacerbated by ongoing conflicts and blockades that severely limit access to essential supplies and services (OHCHR (https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2023/10/commission-inquiry-collecting-evidence-war-crimes-committed-all-sides-israel)) (OHCHR (https://www.ohchr.org/en/hr-bodies/hrc/co-israel/index)) .
Additionally, reports from the United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) have documented serious violations of international law by both Israeli authorities and Palestinian armed groups. These violations include unlawful killings, collective punishment, and the destruction of civilian infrastructure.
There is no legitimate reason to supply military aid to any group or government that is committing human rights violations. The UN's Independent International Commission of Inquiry has found that the Israeli military's actions in Gaza may constitute war crimes, including the use of starvation as a method of warfare and the indiscriminate use of explosive weapons in densely populated areas (OHCHR (https://www.ohchr.org/en/hr-bodies/hrc/co-israel/index)) (OHCHR (https://www.ohchr.org/en/press-releases/2023/10/civilians-are-primary-victims-increased-violence-israel-and-occupied)) .
Given this context, the use of American taxpayer money to support military actions that contribute to such severe humanitarian crises and potential war crimes is deeply troubling. It is imperative that the United States upholds its commitment to human rights and international law. Providing aid under these circumstances not only undermines our nation's moral standing but also implicates us in actions that violate fundamental humanitarian principles.
I urge you to vote no on HR 8070 or any version of this legislation that partners with Israel’s military or provides them any military aid. Our foreign aid should reflect our values and commitment to peace and justice, rather than perpetuating cycles of violence and suffering.
I look forward to seeing your immediate action regarding this urgent matter in order to promote a more just and humane foreign policy.
First sent on June 17 by BlueCollarJew
