Constituent urges halt to U.S. military aid to Israel; Moulton says he has been critical of tactics and seeks rights-based solution

A Peabody constituent pressed Congressman Seth Moulton to halt U.S. military aid to Israel, saying recent Israeli operations in Gaza amounted to genocide. Moulton responded that while he remains an ally of Israel, he has been critically engaged over the last year about tactics that have led to high civilian casualties and worsening humanitarian conditions.

Bob Mason, a member of Jewish Voice for Peace Boston and North Shore for Palestine, said many analysts conclude Israel’s campaign in Gaza amounted to genocide and asked what Moulton would do to halt U.S. complicity. He called on the congressman to support an embargo or halt on military assistance.

Moulton said he has written critical letters to the administration and the Israeli embassy and has been outspoken about the humanitarian cost of the campaign. He said uniformed, armed Hamas personnel returned to Gaza streets after the ceasefire, which he argued undermines the effectiveness of Israel’s counterinsurgency approach and highlights the complexity of the situation.

Moulton said the long-term solution is to ensure equal rights and security for both Israelis and Palestinians. He acknowledged disagreement over specific bills and said some proposals go too far, while reiterating a desire for peace and protection for civilians on both sides.

He thanked the questioner for advocacy and said the issue will require sustained debate and action beyond the town hall.