PolicyBrief
S.J.RES. 27
119th CongressFeb 25th 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 resolution disapproves of the proposed sale of high explosive projectiles and related support to Israel. It prevents the transfer of these defense articles, as outlined in Transmittal No. 240U.

Bernard "Bernie" Sanders
I

Bernard "Bernie" Sanders

Senator

VT

LEGISLATION

Joint Resolution Nixes Sale of High-Explosive Projectiles to Israel: A Potential Shift in U.S.-Israel Defense Relations

This joint resolution aims to stop the U.S. from selling 10,000 M107 and/or M795 155mm High Explosive projectiles, along with related support like technical documents and training, to Israel (Transmittal No. 240U). Basically, it's a move to block a specific arms deal.

What's Actually Changing?

The resolution directly prohibits the transfer of these specific high-explosive munitions. Think of it like this: a construction company suddenly can't get a specific type of heavy-duty equipment they were planning to use. They have to either find an alternative or adjust their project. In this case, Israel would need to find another supplier for these projectiles or change its defense strategy if this sale is blocked.

Real-World Rollout

If this goes through, the immediate effect is that the sale doesn't happen. No new 155mm high-explosive shells from the U.S. to Israel. This could have a ripple effect. For example, an Israeli artillery unit that relies on these specific projectiles might need to adjust its operational plans or training. It could also impact budgets, as Israel might need to quickly find and pay for replacements from a different source.

The Bigger Picture: Challenges & Potential Impacts

This resolution could signal a shift in how the U.S. approaches arms sales, especially concerning human rights. It raises the question: If the U.S. starts limiting specific types of weapons sales, what does that mean for other countries and future deals? It is also important to note that by blocking the sale of these projectiles, Israel may seek to purchase them from another country that does not have the same oversight as the U.S.

This move also fits into the larger context of the U.S.-Israel relationship. Blocking this sale could be seen as a significant policy change, potentially affecting diplomatic and military cooperation. It's like a long-standing business partnership hitting a major snag – it doesn't necessarily end the relationship, but it definitely changes the dynamic, at least in the short term.