H.J.Res.70 - Providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed license amendment for the export to Israel of certain defense articles and services. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.70 is a joint resolution introduced in the House of Representatives aiming to disapprove a proposed license amendment for the export of specific defense articles and services to Israel. The resolution targets Transmittal No. DDTC 24-052, which concerns the export of Boeing Direct Attack Weapons, including Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) variants and Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) Increment I variants, intended for use by the Israeli Ministry of Defense. The proposed amendment would authorize the transfer of 15,500 additional JDAM tail kits and 615 SDBs.
The resolution was submitted by Ms. Tlaib and several co-sponsors and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. If passed, it would effectively block the specified arms transfer to Israel.
This action reflects congressional oversight of arms exports under the Arms Export Control Act.
Expected Effects
If H.J.Res.70 is enacted, the license amendment for the export of JDAM tail kits and SDBs to Israel would be blocked. This would prevent the transfer of these specific defense articles from the United States to the Israeli Ministry of Defense.
The likely effect is a strain in US-Israeli relations, particularly concerning military aid and cooperation. It could also lead to a reevaluation of arms export policies and congressional oversight in similar matters.
Potential Benefits
- Could reduce the risk of civilian casualties in conflict zones where these weapons might be used.
- May promote diplomatic efforts to resolve conflicts peacefully by limiting military resources.
- Could align US foreign policy more closely with international human rights standards.
- Could strengthen congressional oversight and accountability in arms export decisions.
- May encourage Israel to seek alternative suppliers, potentially diversifying the global arms market.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could strain the relationship between the United States and Israel, a key ally in the Middle East.
- May weaken Israel's defense capabilities, potentially increasing its vulnerability to external threats.
- Could be perceived as a sign of wavering US commitment to Israel's security.
- May embolden adversaries of Israel, leading to increased regional instability.
- Could set a precedent for congressional interference in arms export decisions, potentially complicating future foreign policy initiatives.
Most Disadvantaged Areas:
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. It also relates to Congress's role in foreign policy, although the Constitution divides foreign policy powers between the executive and legislative branches.
The Arms Export Control Act, referenced in the resolution, provides a statutory framework for congressional oversight of arms exports. The resolution's attempt to disapprove a license amendment aligns with this framework.
However, the President retains significant authority in foreign affairs, and a veto of the resolution could override congressional disapproval, highlighting the checks and balances inherent in the Constitution.
Impact Assessment: Things You Care About ⓘ
This action has been evaluated across 19 key areas that matter to you. Scores range from 1 (highly disadvantageous) to 5 (highly beneficial).