Story perspectives

Senators Accuse Israel of Ethnic Cleansing in Gaza

9/14/2025

Summary

Story summary

Senators Chris Van Hollen and Jeff Merkley released a report accusing Israel of ethnic cleansing in Gaza, implicating U.S. complicity.
Their findings, based on a recent regional visit, reveal extensive destruction of civilian infrastructure.
The report states that 92% of housing, 94% of hospitals, and 86% of water facilities in Gaza are destroyed.
They claim Israel uses food as a weapon, obstructing humanitarian aid.
The senators urge the U.S. to cease military aid to Israel and support a ceasefire.

History

Historical Context

The Yom Kippur War in 1973 marked a turning point in U.S.-Israel relations, leading to a significant increase in U.S. military aid, which reached $2.2 billion annually by the 1980s. This support has faced criticism for enabling Israeli military actions against Palestinians, particularly amid recent allegations of ethnic cleansing in Gaza, where 92% of housing and 94% of hospitals have been destroyed.

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Story summary

Senators Chris Van Hollen and Jeff Merkley released a report accusing Israel of ethnic cleansing in Gaza, implicating U.S. complicity.
Their findings, based on a recent regional visit, reveal extensive destruction of civilian infrastructure.
The report states that 92% of housing, 94% of hospitals, and 86% of water facilities in Gaza are destroyed.
They claim Israel uses food as a weapon, obstructing humanitarian aid.
The senators urge the U.S. to cease military aid to Israel and support a ceasefire.

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