Ohio’s Senator Bernie Moreno accuses Bernie Sanders of spreading “Hamas propaganda” in a heated Senate debate over the Israel-Gaza conflict, sparking nationwide controversy.

At a Glance

• Senator Bernie Moreno (R-OH) and Senator Bernie Sanders (I-VT) clashed over Israel’s military operations in Gaza
• Sanders condemned Israel’s actions as “war crimes” and “ethnic cleansing,” while Moreno defended Israel as acting in self-defense
• Moreno emphasized that Hamas initiated the conflict with its October 7, 2023 attack and continues to hold hostages
• The exchange highlights deep ideological divisions within Congress regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict
• Moreno faced criticism from some media outlets for his strong defense of Israel’s military actions

A Tale of Two Bernies: Opposing Views on Gaza

Freshman Republican Senator Bernie Moreno of Ohio took a firm stand against Independent Senator Bernie Sanders of Vermont during a recent Senate session, accusing the veteran lawmaker of spreading “absolute propaganda of Hamas.” The confrontation emerged after Sanders delivered a scathing critique of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, characterizing them as ethnic cleansing and starvation tactics. Sanders also criticized U.S. financial support for Israel and made claims about former President Trump’s stance encouraging what he termed as ethnic cleansing in Gaza.

Moreno, who recently joined the Senate, refused to let these accusations stand unchallenged. He vigorously defended Israel, reminding his colleagues about the October 7, 2023 Hamas attack that precipitated the current conflict. Moreno emphasized that the violence resulted in numerous casualties and hostages, including American citizens. Throughout his rebuttal, Moreno maintained that Hamas, not Israel, was the aggressor and the true enemy in this conflict.

Sanders’ Allegations Against Israel

During his Senate floor speech, Sanders presented a stark view of the situation in Gaza. He described Israel’s military campaign as “a war crime, committed openly and in broad daylight, and continuing every single day.” Sanders acknowledged Hamas’ role in initiating the conflict but insisted that Israel’s response has been disproportionate and devastating to Palestinian civilians. He criticized U.S. policy, suggesting that financial support to Israel enables what he characterized as human rights violations.

“What you just heard… could be summarized as the absolute propaganda of Hamas”, said Bernie Moreno.

Sanders also made controversial allegations regarding AIPAC’s influence on U.S. policy, suggesting the organization funds campaigns against those who oppose Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu’s actions. He called for immediate action: a ceasefire, increased humanitarian aid, and rebuilding Gaza for Palestinians. These demands came as humanitarian organizations have reported dire conditions for Gazan civilians, though assessments of responsibility for these conditions remain contested.

Moreno’s Forceful Defense of Israel

Moreno’s response was direct and unapologetic. He characterized Sanders’ speech as a disgrace that disparaged America’s strongest ally in the Middle East. The Ohio Senator highlighted Hamas’ use of civilian areas for military purposes as a primary reason for civilian casualties in Gaza. Moreno also emphasized that the conflict has a clear path to resolution that Hamas could implement immediately.

“This war was started by Hamas. It could end today by Hamas if they release every last hostage, including an American citizen.”, added Moreno.

Moreno’s position has received both support and criticism. Supporters praise his unwavering commitment to Israel during a time of crisis, while critics suggest his stance overlooks the humanitarian situation. The Cleveland.com podcast “Today in Ohio” was particularly critical, with host Chris Quinn claiming Moreno “brought shame to Ohio yesterday by basically standing up in Congress to announce support for the mass slaughter of women and children and human suffering.” Such characterizations demonstrate the deeply polarized nature of the debate.

Congressional Divide Reflects National Sentiment

The heated exchange between Moreno and Sanders represents more than just a disagreement between two senators. It illustrates the profound ideological divide within Congress and across the nation regarding the Israel-Hamas conflict. While Sanders views Israel as employing excessive force that harms innocent Palestinians, Moreno sees Israel as defending itself against a terrorist organization that deliberately places civilians in harm’s way to generate international sympathy.

This Senate confrontation mirrors debates happening in communities across America, where citizens are grappling with how to balance support for Israel’s security with humanitarian concerns for Palestinian civilians. As the conflict in Gaza continues, these discussions are likely to intensify, further highlighting the complex moral and strategic questions that define America’s Middle East policy and its relationship with Israel.