CHICOPEE, Mass (WWLP) - The war in the Middle East has been going on for over a year and unfortunately there are not any signs of ending in sight. The war started when Hamas invaded and attacked Israel last October and now over the past year, Hezbollah and Iran have gotten involved in the war, launching attacks in Israel. Other countries have provided help and aid, in other ways. Senator Ed Markey said he maintains his support of Israel against the attacks, but also helping those who are impacted by the war. "It is important for the United States to help the Israeli government to shoot down the incoming Iranian missiles and I think it is important for the United States to continue to play that role but ultimately we need peace. We need to find a way of ensuring that this conflict ends but it is also important for humanitarian aid to go to those who are most vulnerable in Gaza as well," said U.S. Senator Markey. According to a study from October of 2023 to October of 2024, the US has spent $17.9 billion dollars on military aid to Israel. The US has also provided nearly $336 million in humanitarian aid to Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank. Just this week, the US had announced troops will deploy to Israel along with an antimissile system.