Senate Democrats Propose Resolution for U.S. Recognition of Demilitarized Palestinian State

WASHINGTON – In an unprecedented move, several Senate Democrats have introduced a resolution advocating for the United States to formally recognize a demilitarized Palestinian state. This initiative marks the first instance of such a resolution in the Senate’s history.

The nonbinding resolution simultaneously calls on Hamas to lay down arms and release hostages, while urging Israel to end military operations and halt further settlement expansion. Despite the resolution’s lack of support from Republicans in the GOP-controlled Senate, its backers emphasize the symbolic and diplomatic significance of the effort as international attention intensifies.

Supporters argue the resolution sends a crucial message ahead of the upcoming United Nations General Assembly, where multiple U.S. allies are preparing to endorse Palestinian statehood. They hope this initiative will increase pressure on the current administration to respond to the escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Senator Jeff Merkley, who spearheaded the effort, stated, "Recognition of a Palestinian state is not only a practical step the United States can take to help build a future where Palestinians and Israelis can live in freedom, dignity and security, but it is the right thing to do. America has a responsibility to lead, and the time to act is now." He further emphasized that establishing two states, one for each people, remains the only viable pathway to lasting peace and prosperity.

"Israel’s current military policies in Gaza risk creating a bleak future for both Palestinians and Israelis," Merkley warned.

This resolution comes shortly after independent Senator Bernie Sanders publicly accused Israel of committing "genocide" in Gaza, a charge Israel denied. Sanders argued that Israel’s actions over the past two years represent more than self-defense, describing them as an all-out assault on the Palestinian population.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) has reported the ongoing destruction of civilian infrastructure and increasing humanitarian difficulties in Gaza City due to Israeli military operations. Health authorities based in Gaza report the death toll in the Gaza Strip has exceeded 65,000 since October 7, 2023, underscoring the severe toll of the conflict.

The resolution, while unlikely to pass given current Senate dynamics, aims to reshape the dialogue surrounding U.S. policy on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict and address the urgent humanitarian needs in the region.