Republican presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy suggested that the U.S. should halt military aid to Israel until the government provides a clear plan for the aftermath of invading Gaza.
“Israel must outline its objectives for success in Gaza and a coherent strategy for governing post-toppling Hamas. Without answers to these vital questions, further U.S. support should be contingent,” Ramaswamy stated.
This statement was part of a larger message to POLITICO, where the entrepreneur reiterated his strong opposition to President Joe Biden’s $106 billion funding request to support Israel and Ukraine.
Ramaswamy argued that the United States, burdened by significant debt, cannot continue supplying weapons to these countries. He criticized the wasted trillions of dollars spent during the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Additionally, he expressed concerns about assisting Ukraine, raising the risk of a major conflict with Russia, and supporting Israel in a ground invasion of Hamas, which could draw the U.S. into a prolonged regional war.
The candidate urged lawmakers from both parties to reject this proposal during his appearance on Fox News Friday night.
President Biden’s request includes $61.4 billion for Ukraine, $14.3 billion for Israel, and $9.15 billion for humanitarian assistance to Ukraine, Israel, and Gaza. There are also calls to bolster military support for Taiwan and enhance border security.
While Biden and his team affirm Israel’s right to defend itself, they caution against an all-out assault on Gaza. U.S. officials emphasize the need to minimize civilian harm and target Hamas specifically. The future actions of Israel remain uncertain.
Ramaswamy’s statements align with his consistent skepticism towards U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts, regardless of the country being assisted. He has previously advocated for military strikes on Mexican drug cartels to combat the fentanyl crisis and warned China and other countries about engaging further in the Western Hemisphere.
Ramaswamy has faced opposition from fellow Republican candidate Nikki Haley, the former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations, particularly regarding foreign policy and Israel. During the first presidential debate, Haley criticized him as inexperienced in global affairs. They have also clashed over the issue of winding down military aid to Israel.
In recent remarks, Ramaswamy accused his competitors of lacking the courage to suggest that Israel avoid invading Gaza, stating that such an action would serve neither Israel’s interests nor America’s.
Ramaswamy, along with Haley and Florida Governor Ron DeSantis, is among the three candidates qualified for the next GOP presidential debate, while former President Donald Trump, the current frontrunner, is unlikely to participate.
