H.J.Res.86 - Providing for congressional disapproval of the report of enhancement or upgrade of sensitive foreign military related to a sale to the Government of Israel of certain defense articles and services. (119th Congress)
Summary
H.J.Res.86 is a joint resolution introduced in the House of Representatives aiming to disapprove of a proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Israel. The resolution specifically targets the enhancement or upgrade of sensitive foreign military equipment related to this sale. It cites Transmittal No. 25-0C, which details an increase in Major Defense Equipment (MDE) value by $624,000,000 and non-MDE value by $269,000,000 due to recent cost increases.
The resolution seeks to block the sale of these defense articles and services. The bill was introduced in the House of Representatives on March 31, 2025, and referred to the Committee on Foreign Affairs.
The sponsors of the bill include Ms. Tlaib, Ms. Jayapal, and several other representatives.
Expected Effects
If passed, H.J.Res.86 would prohibit the sale of specific defense articles and services to Israel, as outlined in Transmittal No. 25-0C. This would prevent the increase in Major Defense Equipment (MDE) value by $624,000,000 and non-MDE value by $269,000,000.
The immediate effect would be a disruption in the planned military upgrade program for Israel. The long-term effect could strain diplomatic relations between the US and Israel and impact regional security dynamics.
Potential Benefits
- Potentially reduces US involvement in international conflicts.
- May decrease financial burden on US taxpayers related to foreign military aid.
- Could encourage diplomatic solutions over military ones.
- May align US foreign policy more closely with human rights concerns.
- Could set a precedent for greater congressional oversight of arms sales.
Most Benefited Areas:
Potential Disadvantages
- Could harm the US-Israel relationship.
- May negatively impact Israel's security and defense capabilities.
- Could embolden adversaries of Israel.
- May reduce the US's influence in the Middle East.
- Potentially damages the credibility of the US as a reliable ally.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's power to regulate foreign commerce and provide for the common defense, as outlined in Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. Specifically, Congress has the power to declare war, raise and support armies, and provide and maintain a navy. This resolution represents an attempt by Congress to influence foreign policy through its control over military sales.
The Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2776(b)(5)(C)), which the resolution references, delegates certain authorities to the executive branch regarding arms sales but also provides for congressional oversight. The resolution is an example of Congress exercising its oversight role.
There is no apparent violation of individual rights or liberties as defined in the Constitution or its amendments.
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).