This joint resolution seeks to block the proposed sale of specific U.S. defense articles and services, including bombs and related equipment, to Israel.
Bernard "Bernie" Sanders
Senator
VT
This joint resolution seeks to block the proposed sale of specific military defense articles and services to Israel. The resolution specifically disapproves the sale of thousands of bombs, fuses, and guidance kits. It also covers support equipment, spare parts, and engineering services related to these items. If passed, this resolution would prevent the United States from providing this military equipment to Israel.
US to Block Specific Bomb Sales to Israel Under New Joint Resolution
This joint resolution puts a hard stop on selling certain military equipment to Israel, specifically targeting bombs and related tech. We're talking about thousands of GBU-39B Small Diameter Bombs, MK 82 general-purpose bombs, and those Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) Guidance Kits that make bombs "smart." Also on the no-sale list: a bunch of fuzes, bomb components, support equipment, and even the engineering and tech support that goes with it.
"No More Bombs?" Breaking Down the Ban
The core of this resolution is simple: prevent the sale of specific types of bombs and related equipment to Israel. The bill lists out exactly what's prohibited, down to the model numbers: 2,166 GBU39B bombs, 2,800 MK 82 500-pound bomb bodies, and thousands of JDAM Guidance Kits (KMU556EB, KMU556HB, KMU556FB, KMU556JB, KMU557EB, KMU557FB, KMU557HB, KMU557JB, KMU572EB, KMU572FB, KMU572HB, KMU572JB) that turn 'dumb' bombs into precision-guided weapons. It also blocks 17,475 FMU152AB fuzes and FMU139 fuzes. This isn't just about the bombs themselves; it includes components, support equipment, spare parts, and even U.S. Government and contractor engineering, logistics, and technical support services.
Real-World Impact: Beyond the Battlefield
This move could mean fewer civilian casualties in conflict zones. By limiting access to these specific weapons, the resolution aims to de-escalate tensions in the region. Think of it like this: fewer bombs mean less potential for widespread damage, potentially pushing for more peaceful resolutions. For someone living in a conflict zone, this could mean a significantly reduced risk of harm to their homes and families. For the U.S., this could signal a shift towards aligning foreign policy more closely with human rights concerns.
Potential Hurdles
While the resolution's goal is clear, there might be workarounds. Future administrations could, for example, approve sales of similar equipment that isn't exactly what's listed in the bill. Or they could up the ante on other kinds of military aid. It's like banning one type of soda – people might just switch to another brand, or another sugary drink altogether. Also, this move is likely to strain diplomatic relations with Israel, which could have its own set of ripple effects.
How does it fit with existing laws and regulations?
This resolution operates within the existing framework of U.S. arms export controls, specifically amending the Arms Export Control Act, which governs international arms sales. It's a direct use of Congressional power to block a specific sale, reflecting a targeted policy shift rather than a complete overhaul of arms export laws. This means it's adding a new rule to the existing playbook, rather than rewriting the entire rulebook.