Schumer and Senate Democrats Block Sanctions on ICC, Exposing Deep Divisions Over Israel

Schumer and Senate Democrats Block Sanctions on ICC, Exposing Deep Divisions Over Israel

Edited by: Fern Sidman

In a move that has reignited concerns over his true stance on Israel, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer led Senate Democrats in blocking a critical piece of legislation that would have imposed sanctions on the International Criminal Court (ICC) for its illegitimate and unlawful prosecution efforts. According to a report on Wednesday on the Vois Es Nais web site, the bill was designed to hold the ICC accountable for its politically motivated actions, yet Schumer and his Democratic colleagues refused to support it. The lone exception? Senator John Fetterman (D-PA), who once again proved to be one of the few remaining voices of reason in his party as it pertains to standing with Israel.

As the VIN News report highlighted, this is far from the first time Schumer has found himself at odds with pro-Israel advocates. While he frequently proclaims his support for Israel—especially when it is politically advantageous—his voting record paints a starkly different picture. The report on VIN News reminded readers of Schumer’s past contradictions, including his vocal support for Israel on public stages while simultaneously working behind the scenes to block essential measures aimed at strengthening the Jewish state’s security.

One of the most glaring examples of this duplicity, as the VIN News report noted, occurred at the March for Israel. Schumer took center stage and declared himself “the highest-ranking elected Jewish official in American history.” With great passion, he assured the crowd, “We will not rest until Israel gets all the assistance they need! We stand with Israel!” These words were met with enthusiastic applause, giving many the impression that Schumer was committed to ensuring Israel’s security. However, when it came time to vote on critical arms legislation, the VIN News report pointed out that he sided against Israel, undermining the very promises he had made.

Schumer’s actions have also included repeated attacks on Israeli leadership. As the report on VIN News recalled, he previously referred to Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as “an obstacle to peace,” parroting the rhetoric of the radical, anti-Israel wing of his party. His willingness to publicly criticize Israel’s leadership while refusing to take concrete action against those who threaten the Jewish state—such as the ICC’s baseless legal pursuits—has led many to question whether Schumer prioritizes Democratic Party unity over Israel’s security.

The ICC’s decision to target Israel has been widely condemned by bipartisan voices and legal experts, yet the VIN News report drove the point home that Schumer and Senate Democrats chose to shield the court from consequences rather than impose much-needed sanctions. This decision sends a dangerous message—that international bodies can engage in politically motivated prosecutions against Israel without fear of retribution from the U.S. government.

Schumer’s critics have long accused him of political opportunism as it pertains to Israel, and this latest vote only reinforces that perception. As the information provided in the VIN News report indicated, he is quick to speak about his Jewish identity and allegiance to Israel when it is convenient, yet time and again, his legislative actions reveal a pattern of abandonment. His failure to support sanctions against the ICC is just the latest betrayal in a long line of decisions that have prioritized party politics over the well-being of Israel and the Jewish people.

In contrast, the VIN News report highlighted the role of Senator John Fetterman of Pennsylvania as a rare example of moral clarity within the Democratic Party. While many of his colleagues succumb to pressure from the party’s growing anti-Israel faction, Fetterman has remained steadfast in his support for Israel, backing critical legislation and calling out dangerous rhetoric. His vote in favor of sanctions against the ICC stands in stark contrast to Schumer’s refusal to act, further drawing attention to the rapidly increasing divide within the Democratic Party over Israel.

Schumer’s words and actions on Israel simply do not align. While he may claim to be a steadfast ally, his repeated betrayals suggest otherwise. The Jewish community and Israel’s supporters must remain vigilant and hold leaders accountable for their decisions—not just their speeches.