Bernie Sanders becomes first US senator to call Israel’s actions in Gaza ‘genocide’

In a statement released Wednesday, Bernie Sanders cited casualty figures and remarks from Israeli officials, calling the conclusion «inescapable,» according to The Guardian.

«Over the last two years, Israel has not simply defended itself against Hamas. Instead, it has waged an all-out war against the entire Palestinian people,» the senator underscored.

On Wednesday, Sanders also referenced a recent UN panel report stating that Israel’s actions meet the legal definition of genocide. He said the U.S. should support a ceasefire, more humanitarian aid and progress toward Palestinian statehood.

Other U.S. lawmakers, including Representatives Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, Rashida Tlaib, Marjorie Taylor Greene and Vermont’s Becca Balint, have called Israel’s actions genocide.

«I believe the Israeli government is committing genocide against Palestinians,» Balint wrote.

This statement comes as several Western countries prepare to recognize Palestinian statehood at the next UN General Assembly, highlighting a growing international response to recent developments.