Ken Martin, chair of the Democratic National Committee, speaks during an interview on party strategy. Photo: Screenshot

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) on Tuesday rejected efforts by the party’s progressive wing to push through an arms embargo on Israel, instead opting to form a task force aimed at addressing internal party divides over the war in Gaza.

A resolution backed by activists on the far left sought to suspend US military aid and halt arms transfers to Israel, a move critics warned would punish a key ally at a time when it faces existential threats from Hamas and other terrorist groups. The resolution also notably did not mention Hamas, which has ruled Gaza for nearly two decades and started the war with its Oct. 7, 2023, invasion of and massacre across southern Israel. The measure was decisively voted down in the resolutions committee.

Party leaders then advanced a more moderate resolution that underscored support for Israel’s security while calling for increased humanitarian access to Gaza, the release of Israeli hostages held by Hamas, and progress toward a two-state solution to resolve the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Although the resolution passed in committee, DNC chair Ken Martin withdrew it amid concerns it could further inflame divisions within the party.

“There’s a divide in our party on this issue,” Martin said, “This is a moment that calls for shared dialogue, calls for shared advocacy.”

For many Jewish Democrats and pro-Israel voices, the rejection of the arms embargo resolution was a relief. They argued that weakening Israel’s ability to defend itself would embolden Hamas and Iran-backed groups that openly seek Israel’s destruction.

“Today, the Democratic Party sent a clear and resounding message by defeating a reckless and divisive resolution: we stand with the people of Israel and will continue to do so. For more than 75 years, the U.S.–Israel relationship has been strong because it’s grounded in shared values and mutual security interests,” Democratic Majority for Israel (DMFI) president and CEO Brian Romick said in a statement.

“In this critical moment, Democrats stood firm, rejected this dangerous effort, and sent a message that they remain united in our commitment to Israel’s security and our long-standing alliance,” Romick continued. 

Although many within the Democratic party’s progressive flank expressed disappointment, moderates stressed that the party cannot afford to abandon a fellow democracy and strategic ally in the Middle East, particularly as Israel continues to face security threats on multiple fronts.

While the task force is expected to revisit the issue, Tuesday’s outcome underscored the DNC’s reluctance to embrace rhetoric that could be perceived as anti-Israel. With the 2026 midterm elections approaching, leaders hope the party can avoid alienating key constituencies, including anti-Israel activists on the far left, while maintaining its commitment to Israel’s security and a two-state solution.