PolicyBrief
S.J.RES. 20
119th CongressFeb 20th 2025
A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to Israel of certain defense articles and services.
IN COMMITTEE

This joint resolution prohibits the sale of 10,000 additional 155mm artillery shell components to Israel, as outlined in Transmittal No. 24-16. The resolution expresses congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale.

Bernard "Bernie" Sanders
I

Bernard "Bernie" Sanders

Senator

VT

LEGISLATION

Joint Resolution Blocks Sale of Artillery Shell Components to Israel, Effective Immediately

This joint resolution puts a hard stop on the sale of 10,000 additional 155mm artillery shell components to Israel. The proposed sale, detailed in Transmittal No. 24-16 and published in the Congressional Record on February 10, 2025, is now officially off the table.

What's Actually Happening?

This resolution directly blocks a specific military sale to Israel. Think of it like this: the U.S. had a deal to sell artillery parts, and this resolution tears up that contract. It is effective immediately which means no components changing hands, period.

Real-World Rollout

For Israel, this means they won't be getting the 10,000 additional components they were expecting. Whether you're a factory owner waiting on raw materials or a military strategist planning operations, not getting what you planned for forces a change in strategy. This could mean anything from adjusting military tactics to seeking supplies from other sources, each with its own set of costs and potential delays.

Who Feels the Change?

Obviously, the Israeli military is directly affected. But consider this: if a construction company suddenly had its supply of concrete cut off, they'd have to find a new supplier, potentially delaying projects and increasing costs. This resolution creates a similar scramble. Beyond the immediate impact, this move could shift dynamics in the region, depending on how Israel adapts and how other nations respond.

Potential Challenges

One major challenge is the immediate disruption to Israel's military planning and procurement. It's like pulling a key ingredient out of a recipe right before baking – the whole process has to be rethought. Moreover, this could strain the relationship between the U.S. and Israel, similar to how a business deal gone sour can affect a partnership. There's also the question of regional stability: if one player in a region suddenly faces supply issues, it could change the balance of power, for better or worse.

The Big Picture

This resolution isn't just about artillery components. It's a clear signal about where Congress stands on military sales to Israel, and potentially, on broader foreign policy commitments. It sits within the larger context of ongoing debates about U.S. involvement in international conflicts and the use of military aid. This move might encourage some countries, put others on edge, and force a reassessment of alliances and strategies in the region.