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Congress Stops Trump’s Weapon Sale

Recently, Congress has placed a temporary hold on a $1 billion arms sale to Israel, which had been finalized just as President Trump welcomed Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu to the White House. This move comes amid rising tensions within the Democratic party, but it’s important to note that this action is unprecedented in the long-standing bipartisan support for Israel.

Typically, arms sales of this size, which include 4,700 1,000-pound bombs and armored bulldozers, are not subject to such delays. The House and Senate Foreign Relations Committees hold significant sway over foreign military sales, and four key lawmakers are able to block these transactions. While the hold on the Israeli arms deal has garnered attention, it’s clear that this is not a reflection of the broader U.S.-Israel relationship, which remains foundational to American security interests in the Middle East.

The U.S. military’s support for Israel has historically been seen as a vital investment in regional stability. Israel is America’s strongest ally in the region, and providing it with necessary military tools is critical for countering shared threats, such as the growing influence of Iran and terror groups like Hamas and Hezbollah. Despite criticism of Prime Minister Netanyahu’s policies, particularly with regard to Palestinians, arms sales to Israel have generally enjoyed support across party lines.

While President Biden has moved forward with substantial arms packages to Israel in the past, including an $18 billion sale in 2023, some Democrats are increasingly vocal in opposing U.S. support for Israel’s military actions, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Gaza. However, the majority of Republicans remain steadfast in their belief that continued support for Israel is essential to America’s strategic interests and the fight against terrorism.

The recent hold on this deal serves as a reminder that the partisan divide in Washington is impacting even traditional foreign policy areas, but it also underscores the importance of maintaining a strong and unwavering alliance with Israel. As we look ahead, the $38 billion Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that the U.S. signed with Israel in 2016 remains in effect, and the commitment to ensuring Israel’s security through military aid will remain a crucial pillar of U.S. foreign policy.

While the arms deal holds the attention of many, it’s essential to recognize that our support for Israel must remain resolute and not be swayed by partisan pressures or fleeting political disagreements. In a volatile world, Israel’s strength is America’s strength.