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Rep. Gregory Meeks is placing a hold on the Trump administration’s proposed $2.8 billion bomb sale to Israel, citing concerns about how the weapons could be used in densely populated areas.
Meeks, D-N.Y., announced the decision on Sept. 16. He serves as the ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee and said the administration has not provided enough assurances about the planned weapons transfer.
Meeks raises concerns over bomb sale
The proposed package includes 40,000 2,000-pound bombs, according to Meeks’ office. Reuters reported that the package includes 20,000 MK-84 bombs and 20,000 BLU-117 bombs.
Meeks said the proposed transfer raises concerns about how the munitions could be used in densely populated areas of Gaza and Lebanon.
He also said the Trump administration had not provided sufficient assurances that the weapons would be used in accordance with U.S. law and with protections for civilians.
At the same time, Meeks said his decision does not change congressional support for Israel’s defense needs. He described the hold as part of Congress’ responsibility to oversee the use of U.S.-funded weapons.
Hold does not automatically stop the sale
Meeks’ decision places a hold on the proposed transaction, but it does not automatically prevent the sale from moving forward.
Reuters reported that the president can declare an emergency requiring an immediate arms sale, which can bypass the normal congressional review process.
The Associated Press also reported that Meeks’ action could be overcome if the administration uses emergency powers to proceed with the transfer.
Congressional lawmakers have traditionally used the arms-sales review process to raise questions about proposed military transfers. However, individual lawmakers do not have unilateral authority to permanently block a transaction.
Proposed sale comes amid Gaza concerns
The proposed weapons package comes as the war in Gaza continues to shape debate over U.S. military support for Israel.
Meeks specifically cited Gaza and Lebanon when explaining his concerns about the proposed transfer. His statement focused on the need for assurances that the weapons would be used lawfully and with safeguards for civilians.
The Trump administration has not indicated that the proposed sale will be canceled because of Meeks’ hold.
For now, the transaction remains subject to the congressional review process and any further action by the administration.
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Source: U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, Reuters, Associated Press
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