Top Democrat puts hold on Trump's $2.8B weapons sale to Israel

Democratic Congressman Gregory Meeks, a key figure on a committee that reviews weapons deals, has announced he will not endorse the proposed $2.8bn arms sale to Israel. Meeks is concerned that the 2,000lb bombs being provided to Israel may not be used in a manner consistent with international law. This objection stems from reports that the US is set to supply Israel with 40,000 of these "some of the most destructive munitions" in its arsenal.

Despite Meeks' objection, the sale can still proceed as the US President, President Donald Trump, has the authority to bypass Congress and initiate the sale. Meeks reiterated his commitment to Israel's security, yet highlighted the deal's "grave, unresolved concerns" about the potential misuse of the munitions in densely populated areas of Gaza and Lebanon.

This aligns with Congress's duty to ensure that US-funded weapons are used lawfully, responsibly, and with safeguards for human life. J Street, a liberal pro-Israel advocacy group, commented that "you cannot rebuild Gaza with 2,000lb bombs". Lawmakers are notified of weapons sales over a certain dollar amount, enabling them to place an informal hold on the deal.

However, the President can proceed with the deal if he declares an emergency necessitates an immediate sale. A veto-proof resolution from both the House and Senate would be necessary to block the weapons transfer. Israel's use of these 2,000lb bombs in Gaza has sparked global outrage due to their devastating impact on densely populated civilian areas.

In 2024, former President Joe Biden halted a shipment of these bombs to Israel, a decision reversed under President Trump's administration. The weapons' delivery is purportedly through the Foreign Military Financing program, a funding mechanism that annually provides billions of dollars to Israel and other allies for US-made arms.

Despite bipartisan backing for the US-Israel relationship, support among Democrats has been waning. In July, Republican lawmaker Thomas Massie introduced a bill to cut $3.3bn in security aid to Israel, receiving backing from 103 Democrats. He was the sole Republican who backed the amendment.