Senator Cardin discusses the importance of aid to Israel and Ukraine, the connection between Russian aggression and the war in Gaza, and concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
Senator Ben Cardin, the chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, has been working with the Biden Administration to pass a bill through Congress that would provide aid to both Ukraine and Israel. As one of the last major pieces of legislation of his congressional career, Cardin’s efforts hold significant weight. In a recent interview, Senator Cardin discussed the status of the aid bill, the connection between Russian aggression and the war in Gaza, and his concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza.
The Status of the Aid Bill for Israel and Ukraine
The aid bill for Israel and Ukraine is currently under consideration in both the House and the Senate. The major stumbling block appears to be the border-security issues, which are a prerequisite to keep the bill in its current form on the floor of the United States Senate. While Ukraine has been an issue for many House Republicans, the border-security issues are the main concern in the Senate.
The Connection between Russian Aggression and Israel’s War
Senator Cardin believes that there is a common risk factor and national-security concern for the United States in both the conflict in Ukraine and Israel’s war with Hamas. Iran, a supporter of both Russia and Hamas, has played a role in facilitating aggression against Ukraine and Israel. Other countries, such as North Korea, have also supported Russia in Ukraine. China’s sympathy lies with Russia, further adding to the common risk factor in Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan.
The Complexity of the Situations in Israel and Ukraine
While all the areas of conflict have their complications, Senator Cardin emphasizes that Russia’s aggression in Ukraine is not solely about Ukraine. If successful, Russia would not stop there. In the Middle East, Hamas seeks to destroy Israel and remove Jews from the region. China is closely watching the reaction of the free world in these conflicts, posing a threat to democratic Taiwan.
Material Support for Israel’s Defense
The United States provides foreign assistance to Israel, including support for the Iron Dome defense network. In the current conflict, the U.S. has made certain equipment and arms available to Israel. The supplemental bill includes additional support for air defense and the development of the next generation of air defense for Iron Dome. The U.S. has been drawing down on its own inventory and considering certain foreign-military sale requests from Israel.
Concerns about the Humanitarian Situation in Gaza
Senator Cardin acknowledges his concerns about the humanitarian challenges in Gaza. However, he highlights the brutal attack by Hamas on Israel that led to the current conflict. Senator Cardin witnessed firsthand the evidence of Hamas’ actions during his visit to Israel. He believes that Israel has the right and obligation to defend itself against this enemy. Cardin also expresses the importance of ridding Gaza of Hamas, as they have been misusing aid meant for the Palestinian people.
Conclusion:
Senator Ben Cardin’s efforts to pass an aid bill for Ukraine and Israel amidst the ongoing conflicts have significant implications for both countries. He emphasizes the common risk factor and national-security concerns in the conflicts in Ukraine, Israel, and Taiwan. While concerns about the humanitarian situation in Gaza are acknowledged, Cardin believes in Israel’s right to defend itself against Hamas’ aggression. The aid bill remains under consideration, and its passage will provide crucial support to both Ukraine and Israel in their respective struggles.
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