Key House Democrat Refuses to Clear Trump’s $2.8bn Arms Sale to Israel
Pro-Israel Gregory Meeks raises concerns over threat to civilian lives from package of 40,000 one-ton bombs
TL;DR
- Representative Gregory Meeks has blocked a $2.8 billion sale of 40,000 heavy bombs to Israel.
- Meeks cited insufficient assurances that the weapons would be used lawfully and with appropriate civilian protections.
- The sale includes 20,000 MK-84 bombs and 20,000 BLU-117 bombs.
- Meeks' hold utilizes an informal "tiered review" custom, but cannot single-handedly veto the deal.
- The move comes amid concerns about Israel's use of US weapons, potential violations of Leahy laws and Geneva conventions.
- Meeks stated the hold reflects Congress's responsibility to ensure lawful and responsible use of US-funded weapons, not a diminished support for Israel.