Chan calls for US arms embargo on Israel in California debate
The Pelosi-endorsed Democrat says humanitarian aid should take priority and opposes funding for Israel’s Iron Dome system.
Connie Chan called for a full US arms embargo on the Israeli government during a televised debate, setting out a position on military aid as she campaigns for California’s 11th congressional district.
Chan said she would prioritise humanitarian aid and oppose funding for Israel’s Iron Dome missile defence system. She also said that on her first day in Congress she would vote to “end a genocide in Gaza” and “end an apartheid state”, characterisations she made during the debate.
Chan, a San Francisco supervisor, is running against fellow Democrat Scott Wiener for the seat Nancy Pelosi is leaving. Pelosi endorsed Chan and is not seeking re-election.
Wiener has also described Israel’s assault on Gaza as a genocide. He said he would oppose funding for the Israeli military and the provision of bombs or offensive weapons.
The debate comes amid divisions in Congress over US support for Israel. Al Jazeera reports that nearly all Senate Democrats recently backed an unsuccessful effort to require a State Department report on Israel’s human rights practices, while several House members this week introduced the Stop the Settlements Act.
