Day: July 31, 2025

U.S. Senate Rejects Measure to Halt Arms Sales to Israel Amid Growing Dissent

On July 31, 2025, a significant vote in the U.S. Senate aimed to stop military equipment sales to Israel failed despite a record number of supportive votes, highlighting a shift in sentiment among some lawmakers. Senator Bernie Sanders introduced the measure, which received backing from 27 Democratic senators. However, it faced strong opposition, with 70 senators voting against the resolution, including all Republicans and 17 Democrats, reports 24brussels.

The resolution was part of an ongoing debate about U.S. foreign military assistance amidst growing concerns over the humanitarian crisis in Gaza. Sanders expressed disappointment on social media, stating, “By a vote of 27-17, Senate Democrats voted to stop sending arms shipments to a Netanyahu government which has waged a horrific, immoral and illegal war against the Palestinian people.”

The measure aimed to prohibit a $675.7 million arms sale by the U.S. government, which included 201 MK 83 bombs and thousands of Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) kits, intended for precision strikes. A second proposal to block the sale of assault rifles also failed, indicating a challenging environment for those advocating for a reassessment of U.S. military aid to Israel.

Sanders’ press release stated that existing arms sales violate both the Foreign Assistance Act and the Arms Export Control Act, noting the documented use of such weapons in conflicts resulting in civilian casualties. “The rifles will equip a police force overseen by Itamar Ben-Gvir, known for his extremist views and prior convictions for supporting violence,” the statement read. His statements sought to emphasize the continued violence against Palestinians and the need for accountability.

Despite the failure of these resolutions, Sanders claimed that “the tide is turning” as public sentiment increasingly opposes U.S. complicity in actions that contribute to violence and humanitarian crises abroad. The incidents of violence in the West Bank, resulting in significant casualties among Palestinians and Americans, have raised concerns over U.S. military policies within the context of international humanitarian law.

The outcomes of these votes and the growing dissent within the Congress reflect a larger discourse about U.S. involvement in international conflicts and the moral implications of arms sales to nations engaged in military actions recognized as controversial by many global observers.

Miet Warlop to Represent Belgium at 2026 Venice Biennale

The selection of Miet Warlop to represent Belgium at the 2026 Venice Biennale marks a significant milestone in her career as she becomes the first performance artist to achieve this honor. The announcement was made public recently, reflecting Warlop’s prominent position in the contemporary art scene, reports 24brussels.

Warlop, based in Brussels, has made notable contributions to the art world over the past two decades, with a diverse portfolio that includes performances, exhibitions, and innovative scenography projects. Her work is characterized by energy, humor, and a sense of organized chaos, often leaving audiences eager for what comes next.

In her upcoming presentation in Venice, Warlop will showcase a new piece titled “It Never SSST,” which delves into themes of performance pressure in modern society, language, and rituals. The interactive nature of the performance invites visitors to engage with its rhythm, enabling them to become part of the experience.

Reflecting on her selection, Warlop commented, “It’s a great recognition to receive this place within the context of visual art.” She emphasized that her performances have always revolved around objects and installations, stating, “My performances have always been based on objects, materials or installations, around which I create a performative dynamic. That is the essence of what I do as an artist.”

The Venice Biennale selection jury noted the resonance of current global issues in Warlop’s work, stating, “The chaotic state of the world today is very palpably reflected in the high rock ‘n’ roll content of this performance.”

Warlop’s works have garnered anticipatory expectations, especially following the success of “One Song,” which was named one of the top performances of 2022 by The New York Times after its debut at the Avignon Festival. This production uniquely merges the elements of a sports match with a musical performance, creating an intense and participatory atmosphere among the performers and the audience.

Born in Torhout, West Flanders, Warlop’s trajectory in the arts was significantly shaped by personal loss. Her initial venture into performance art was marked by a requiem for her brother, who passed away in 2004. The struggle with grief and the exploration of chaotic themes became a hallmark of her artistic expression.

Warlop’s breakthrough came in 2009 with “Springville,” a performance that intricately weaves together chaos, surprise, and dynamic elements across various artistic mediums. Following this, she expanded her creative pursuits in Berlin and later in Brussels, where she established her organization, Irene Wool, and engaged in various collaborative projects, including youth theatre.

Most recently, her presentation “Inhale Delirium Exhale” showcased a captivating interplay of silk and sound, further solidifying her reputation in the avant-garde performance circuit. The music for her Venice piece will again be produced by the acclaimed DEEWEE label, ensuring that her upcoming work will continue to challenge and inspire audiences.

As she prepares to take on this prestigious role at the Venice Biennale, Miet Warlop is set to further entrench her legacy within the realm of contemporary visual arts.