This joint resolution disapproves of the proposed license amendment that would have authorized exporting Boeing-made Joint Direct Attack Munitions (JDAM) and Small Diameter Bombs to Israel. The resolution effectively blocks the transfer of 15,500 JDAM tail kits and 615 Small Diameter Bombs.
Bernard "Bernie" Sanders
Senator
VT
This joint resolution seeks to block a proposed license amendment that would have allowed the export of Boeing-made precision-guided bombs to Israel. Specifically, it disapproves of transferring 15,500 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) tail kits and 615 Small Diameter Bombs to the Israeli Ministry of Defense. The resolution effectively prevents the export of these additional weapons.
Joint Resolution Blocks Export of Boeing Precision Weapons to Israel: Includes Thousands of JDAM Kits and Small Diameter Bombs
This joint resolution puts a hard stop on exporting specific U.S.-made weapons to Israel, namely Boeing's Direct Attack Weapons. This includes Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) variants and Small Diameter Bombs—the kind that turn 'dumb bombs' into precision-guided munitions. The resolution specifically targets a license amendment that would've sent 15,500 more JDAM tail kits and 615 Small Diameter Bombs to the Israeli Ministry of Defense.
What's Actually Changing?
The core change is straightforward: no license, no export. This means those weapons, designed for precision strikes, won't be shipped. For example, a construction worker might use a high-tech laser level to ensure accuracy; this resolution essentially says Israel won’t get that level for its bombs. The immediate effect? The Israeli military won't have these additional U.S.-supplied munitions at their disposal.
Real-World Rollout
Imagine a contractor waiting on a shipment of specialized tools needed for a project. This resolution means that shipment is canceled, indefinitely. For the Israeli military, this could mean re-evaluating operational plans or seeking alternatives. It's like a store owner having to find a new supplier when their usual one suddenly stops deliveries. They’ll likely find what they need, but it will take time and could alter how they operate. It also means that, at least from the U.S., there's a commitment to not escalating the supply of these specific weapons into a conflict zone.
Potential Challenges and the Big Picture
This move isn't without its complications. Think of it like a mechanic suddenly losing access to their favorite brand of tools—they might have to switch brands, which could affect their work, at least temporarily. For the U.S.-Israel relationship, this could create some friction. It might push Israel to seek these weapons from other countries, potentially ones with fewer strings attached regarding their use. There's also the bigger question of how this fits with existing defense agreements and the overall balance of power in the region. Long-term, it could signal a shift in how the U.S. handles arms exports, especially to areas with ongoing conflicts. It is important to note that the bill does not consider the potential for unintended consequences, such as creating a void that other suppliers, who do not share U.S. standards, might fill.