S.jres23 - Providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed license amendment for the export to Israel of certain defense articles and services. (119th Congress)
Summary
Senate Joint Resolution 23 proposes congressional disapproval of a license amendment that would allow the export of certain defense articles and services to Israel. Specifically, it targets the export of Boeing Direct Attack Weapons, including Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) variants and Small Diameter Bomb (SDB) Increment I variants, intended for the Israeli Ministry of Defense. The resolution aims to block the transfer of 15,500 additional JDAM tail kits and 615 SDBs.
The resolution cites Transmittal No. DDTC 24-052 and Section 36(c) of the Arms Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2776(c)) as the basis for congressional review. The communication regarding this proposed export was published in the Congressional Record on February 10, 2025, as Executive Communication 337.
The resolution reflects a congressional effort to exert control over arms exports to Israel, potentially driven by concerns about the use of these weapons and their impact on regional stability.
Expected Effects
If enacted, this resolution would prevent the export of the specified defense articles and services to Israel. This could strain the relationship between the U.S. and Israel, particularly regarding defense cooperation.
It may also lead to a reassessment of U.S. arms export policies and congressional oversight of such exports. The Israeli Ministry of Defense would need to seek alternative sources for these weapons or adjust their operational plans.
Potential Benefits
- Could reduce the potential for civilian casualties in conflict zones where these weapons might be used.
- May encourage Israel to pursue diplomatic solutions rather than military actions.
- Reinforces congressional oversight of arms exports, ensuring greater accountability.
- Could improve the U.S.'s international standing by signaling a commitment to human rights and international law.
- May de-escalate regional tensions by limiting the flow of advanced weaponry.
Potential Disadvantages
- Could damage the strategic alliance between the U.S. and Israel.
- May weaken Israel's ability to defend itself against perceived threats.
- Could incentivize Israel to seek arms from other less reliable sources.
- May be perceived as a sign of wavering U.S. commitment to its allies.
- Could negatively impact Boeing and other defense contractors involved in the production of these weapons.
Constitutional Alignment
The resolution is an exercise of Congress's power to regulate commerce with foreign nations, as granted by Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution. It also relates to Congress's role in providing for the common defense (Article I, Section 8).
The Arms Export Control Act, cited in the resolution, delegates certain authorities to the executive branch but also provides for congressional oversight. This resolution is an example of Congress asserting its oversight role.
However, the President also has significant authority in foreign policy, and a disapproval resolution like this could be viewed as a challenge to the President's authority in that area.
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).