To prohibit the issuance of licenses for the exportation of certain defense articles to the United Arab Emirates, and for other purposes.
- Sponsor
- Rep. Jacobs, Sara [D-CA-51]
- Committees
- Foreign Affairs Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Mar 11, 2025
Bottom line
H.R. 2059 seeks to halt U.S. defense article exports to the UAE, linking future sales to the UAE's cessation of alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan.
What it actually does
This bill prohibits the President from selling or authorizing export licenses for specific categories of defense articles to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) or any of its agencies. This restriction remains in effect until the President certifies to Congress that the UAE is no longer providing materiel support to the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) in Sudan.
Proponents argue
Proponents would argue that this bill is a necessary measure to prevent U.S.-origin defense articles from indirectly contributing to conflict and human rights abuses in Sudan, by pressuring the UAE to cease its alleged support for the Rapid Support Forces. It aligns U.S. foreign policy with human rights and stability objectives in the region.
Opponents contend
Opponents might argue that this prohibition could undermine strategic partnerships with the UAE, a key ally in regional security, and potentially destabilize existing security arrangements. They might also contend that it could push the UAE to seek defense articles from other global powers, diminishing U.S. influence and leverage.
The bill is exceptionally short and straightforward, allowing for quick comprehension by any informed reader.
Section 1(a)
Prohibition on Exportation of Covered Defense Articles to the UAE
This section mandates that the President cannot sell or authorize licenses for the export of specific types of defense articles to the United Arab Emirates or its agencies. This prohibition remains in effect until the President officially certifies to Congress that the UAE is no longer providing materiel support to the Rapid Support Forces in Sudan.
Supporters argue
Supporters argue this provision directly addresses concerns about the UAE's alleged role in fueling conflict in Sudan by supporting the RSF, thereby aligning U.S. arms export policy with broader human rights and stability goals.
Critics contend
Critics might argue that this provision could strain diplomatic relations with a key regional partner, potentially pushing the UAE towards non-U.S. defense suppliers and reducing U.S. influence over its military actions.
Tradeoffs
The bill balances human rights concerns and regional stability in Sudan against maintaining strategic defense partnerships and U.S. influence in the Middle East.
Section 1(b)
Definition of Covered Defense Articles
This subsection precisely defines which defense articles are subject to the export prohibition. It refers to specific categories (I, II, III, IV, V, VI, VII, VIII, XIV, XVI, XVII, or XVIII) of the United States Munitions List, as outlined in part 121 of title 22, Code of Federal Regulations. These categories generally include firearms, artillery, ammunition, bombs, missiles, vessels, aircraft, chemical/biological agents, and related equipment.