Summary of SJRES 26: Congressional Disapproval of Proposed Military Sale to Israel

Bill Overview

Bill Number: SJRES 26

Title: A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to Israel of certain defense articles and services.

Introduced: February 25, 2025

Status: Motion to discharge Senate Committee on Foreign Relations rejected by Yea-Nay Vote: 15 - 83 (Record Vote Number: 166)

Classification: Resolution

Primary Sponsor: Bernie Sanders

Purpose and Intent

SJRES 26 aims to formally disapprove a proposed foreign military sale to Israel, which includes a variety of defense articles and services. The resolution reflects concerns regarding the implications of such military sales on regional stability and U.S. foreign policy.

Key Provisions

The resolution specifically prohibits the sale of the following defense items to Israel, as detailed in Transmittal No. 24–13:

• Munitions:

  • 2,166 GBU–39/B Small Diameter Bombs Increment 1 (SDB–I)
  • 2,800 MK 82 General Purpose, 500-pound bomb bodies
  • 13,000 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) Guidance Kits for MK–84 bomb bodies
  • 3,475 JDAM Guidance Kits for BLU–109 bomb bodies
  • 1,004 JDAM Guidance Kits for GBU–38v1
  • 17,475 FMU–152A/B fuzes

• Non-MDE Items:

  • FMU–139 fuzes
  • Bomb components
  • Munitions support and support equipment
  • Spare parts, consumables, and accessories
  • Repair and return support
  • U.S. Government and contractor engineering, logistics, and technical support services

Impact

The resolution, if enacted, would halt the proposed military sale, impacting U.S.-Israel defense relations and potentially altering the dynamics of military support in the region. It reflects a significant stance by Congress regarding military assistance and arms sales, particularly in light of ongoing geopolitical tensions.

Legislative Timeline

• February 25, 2025: Introduced in the Senate and referred to the Committee on Foreign Relations.
• April 3, 2025: Motion to discharge the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations was rejected, with a vote of 15 in favor and 83 against.

Related Legislation

• HJRES 69: Companion resolution in the House of Representatives.
• SJRES 21: Another companion resolution addressing similar issues.

This summary provides a clear understanding of SJRES 26, its provisions, and its potential implications for U.S. foreign policy and military relations with Israel.