Washington(TheCOWNews Digital)Prominent U.S. Senator Bernie Sanders has publicly condemned Israel’s recent airstrikes on Iran, declaring the military action “illegal” and warning against the United States being dragged into yet another Middle Eastern conflict.
Speaking at a press briefing on Capitol Hill, Senator Sanders criticized Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu for ordering the attack on Iran just days before scheduled diplomatic negotiations on Iran’s nuclear program. “Talks were set for Sunday,” Sanders emphasized, “yet Netanyahu launched an assault that has now derailed a critical opportunity for peace.”
He accused Netanyahu of deliberately undermining U.S. diplomacy, noting that the Israeli strike killed one of the primary Iranian figures involved in brokering a potential ceasefire. “Netanyahu sabotaged what could have been the most promising negotiation channel,” Sanders stated, adding that the move disrespected the diplomatic efforts of the U.S. and endangered thousands of lives.
The Israeli airstrikes, launched early Friday morning, targeted multiple Iranian military and nuclear-related sites, resulting in significant casualties, including the deaths of several high-ranking Iranian officials and scientists. The escalation comes amid rising regional tensions following Iran’s retaliatory missile attacks on Israeli territory earlier this week.
Senator Sanders expressed deep concern that the U.S. could become entangled in a broader war, warning against a repeat of past interventions in the Middle East. “The American people do not want to be pulled into another endless war,” he said. “We must stand for peace and diplomacy, not reckless militarism.”
Sanders also urged the Biden administration to take a firm stance in reasserting its commitment to dialogue and peacebuilding, rather than offering unconditional support to military escalations. He called on Congress to review military aid agreements and ensure that American resources are not used to fuel further conflict.
His remarks have been praised by progressive groups and anti-war activists, who see them as a necessary challenge to Washington’s traditionally unwavering support for Israeli defense policy.
As the situation remains volatile, voices like Sanders’ are pushing for a diplomatic reset amid fears that further escalation could ignite a larger regional war with unpredictable global consequences.
