New Hampshire Senate candidate Chris Pappas has publicly stated his opposition to blocking arms sales to Israel, arguing that such a move would not contribute to achieving a ceasefire in the ongoing conflict. Pappas emphasized the need to hold Hamas accountable while also working towards a future for the Palestinian people. His comments were shared via a tweet by Marc Rod.
Pappas, a four-term Congressman currently running for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Senator Jeanne Shaheen, has consistently supported security assistance to Israel. He announced his candidacy for the 2026 election in April 2025, positioning himself as a moderate Democrat. His district encompasses significant parts of southern and eastern New Hampshire.
In his statement, Pappas directly addressed the complex dynamics of the conflict, asserting, > "we should be holding Hamas to account and realizing a future for the Palestinian people." This perspective aligns with his broader support for a two-state solution, where a Palestinian state can exist peacefully alongside a secure Israel.
The debate over U.S. arms sales to Israel has intensified within Congress, particularly among Democrats, amidst concerns over civilian casualties and humanitarian conditions in Gaza. Recently, the U.S. Senate rejected two resolutions introduced by Senator Bernie Sanders aimed at blocking over $675 million in arms sales to Israel. While these resolutions failed, a significant number of Democrats, more than half, voted in favor of them, indicating a growing internal party division on the issue.
Despite the increasing calls from some progressive factions to condition or halt military aid, Pappas has maintained his stance on continued support for Israel's security. He has previously voted for supplemental appropriations bills providing funding for Israel's defense and humanitarian relief. His position underscores a segment of Democratic thought that prioritizes Israel's security needs while acknowledging the humanitarian crisis.