A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Saudi Arabia of certain defense articles and services.
- Sponsor
- Sen. Markey, Edward J. [D-MA]
- Committees
- Foreign Relations Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Sep 16, 2026
Bottom line
This resolution represents a congressional attempt to halt a significant arms sale to Saudi Arabia, reflecting concerns over the use of such weapons and the broader U.S.-Saudi relationship.
What it actually does
This joint resolution seeks to block a proposed foreign military sale of precision-guided munitions and related equipment and services to the Government of Saudi Arabia. Specifically, it prohibits the sale of various KMU-572 and KMU-556 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kits, BLU-111 and BLU-117 general purpose bombs, and associated support, as detailed in Transmittal No. 26-35.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that approving this arms sale would be inconsistent with U.S. values and could exacerbate humanitarian crises, particularly in conflict zones where Saudi Arabia is involved. They contend that these weapons could be used to cause civilian casualties and that the U.S. should not be complicit in such actions, advocating for a foreign policy aligned with human rights.
Opponents contend
Opponents of the resolution (i.e., proponents of the sale) typically argue that blocking the sale undermines a key strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia, a critical ally in regional security and counterterrorism efforts. They assert that denying these sales could weaken Saudi Arabia's defensive capabilities and push them towards other arms suppliers, potentially reducing U.S. influence and control over weapon usage.
The bill text is extremely short and straightforward, allowing for quick comprehension of its direct purpose.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, That the following proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Saudi Arabia is prohibited: (1) The sale of the following defense articles and services described in Transmittal No. 26-35...
Prohibition of Specific Foreign Military Sale to Saudi Arabia
This provision explicitly prohibits the U.S. government from proceeding with a proposed foreign military sale to Saudi Arabia. The sale, identified by Transmittal No. 26-35, includes 10,004 Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kits, 10,004 general purpose bombs (500-lb and 2,000-lb), and various related non-major defense equipment and support services, such as fuze systems, target detectors, spare parts, and U.S. Government and contractor support.
Supporters argue
Supporters of the resolution argue that blocking this sale sends a strong message that the U.S. will not enable actions that contribute to human rights abuses or civilian harm, particularly in conflicts like the one in Yemen. They believe it aligns U.S. foreign policy with humanitarian principles and holds allies accountable.
Critics contend
Opponents of the resolution (i.e., those who support the sale) contend that denying these weapons could jeopardize Saudi Arabia's security, especially against threats from state and non-state actors in the region. They also argue it could strain the strategic partnership, potentially leading Saudi Arabia to seek arms from less scrupulous suppliers and reducing U.S. leverage.
Tradeoffs
The resolution highlights a tension between supporting a strategic ally's security needs and upholding human rights and humanitarian concerns in U.S. foreign policy. It also reflects a power struggle between Congress and the Executive Branch over foreign policy and arms sales authority, balancing national interests with ethical considerations.