By Patricia Zengerle

WASHINGTON (Reuters] – On Tuesday, the U.S. Senate rejected a resolution which would have prevented sale of medium-range advanced air-to–air missiles and missile launchers as well support for Saudi Arabia.

It was defeated by 67 votes to 30, including Mike Lee (Republicans) and Bernie Sanders (Democratic Caucus).

Many U.S. lawmakers view Saudi Arabia as an important Middle East partnership, but members of Congress have also criticized Saudi Arabia for their involvement in war in Yemen. This conflict is one of the most devastating humanitarian catastrophes.

Sanders declared that Saudi Arabia should not be allowed to export more missiles. He was urging people to support the end of this war.

Without assurances that U.S. equipment wouldn’t be used for civilian killings, they have refused approval of military sales to the kingdom. The sale’s backers noted that the administration of President Joe Biden has previously prohibited U.S. offensive weapon sales to Saudi Arabia.

“I agree that Saudi leaders should be held accountable for various actions…but I believe it’s important that security partners understand that we will honor our promises,” stated Democratic Senator Bob Menendez (chair of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee).

This weapons package was approved by both the State Department and the Senate and House foreign relations committees. It would contain 280 AIM-120C-7/C-8 Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles(AMRAAM), 596 LAU-128 Missile Rail Launchers, (MRL) and other support equipment.

Raytheon Technologies, NYSE:), makes missiles.

On Tuesday, the Biden administration stated that it was strongly against this resolution.

The White House Office of Management of Budget stated in a statement that passing the bill “would undermine President’s commitment in aiding in our partner’s defenses during a time of increased missile-and drone attacks against civilians inside Saudi Arabia.”