WASHINGTON—U.S. Senator Chris Murphy (D-Conn.), a member of the U.S. Senate Foreign Relations Committee, released the following statement after voting in support of two Joint Resolutions of Disapproval on offensive weapons transfers to the Netanyahu government:

 

“The images of children starving to death as a famine unfolds across Gaza shock anyone with a conscience. The situation is completely untenable, and I believe the United States cannot continue to militarily support the Netanyahu government so long as it is refusing to take the necessary steps to urgently alleviate this crisis.

 

“My views on the conduct of this war have been clear for some time, but I understand those who have grappled with the urgency of destroying the threat from the terrorist group that perpetrated the October 7th attacks. I understand that Hamas cares nothing for civilians and often intentionally puts them in harm's way. And finally, I accept that Israel has a profound responsibility to protect the historic homeland of the Jewish people and, given the deep, long history of persecution and extermination of Jewish peoples, feels the need to use extraordinary means to defend themselves in a region where many would deny their very right to exist.

 

“But this is a moment where no one—even the most ardent supporters of Israel's fight against Hamas—can close their eyes. One can support Israel's right to exist and defend itself while also drawing a line in the sand that starvation can never be used as a weapon of war. Hamas' lack of humanity cannot become an excuse to allow thousands of children—who play no role in this conflict—to die of hunger.

 

“Israel must take immediate action to allow massive amounts of food, water, fuel, and medication to surge into Gaza. Organizations like the UN, the World Food Programme, and their humanitarian partners have proven their capability to deliver aid to Palestinians in need, without diversion to Hamas, but they need full cooperation from the Israeli and U.S. authorities. There are no excuses remaining—the Trump administration must demand action now, before thousands more are needlessly condemned to die.”