A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Israel of certain defense articles and services.
- Sponsor
- Sen. Sanders, Bernard [I-VT]
- Committees
- Foreign Relations Committee (primary)
- Last action
- Apr 15, 2026
Bottom line
This resolution aims to block the sale of specific U.S.-made bulldozers and associated services to Israel, reflecting congressional oversight of arms exports and a challenge to executive foreign policy.
What it actually does
This joint resolution seeks to prohibit a specific foreign military sale to the Government of Israel, specifically D9R and D9T Caterpillar bulldozers and related support. It leverages the authority under section 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Control Act to disapprove the sale, which was previously notified to Congress via Transmittal No. 24-38.
Proponents argue
Proponents argue that the sale of these specific defense articles, particularly bulldozers, could contribute to actions that violate human rights or international law, such as the demolition of structures in conflict zones. They assert that congressional disapproval is a necessary mechanism to ensure U.S. arms sales align with American values and foreign policy objectives, and to prevent complicity in actions deemed harmful.
Opponents contend
Opponents of the resolution (i.e., proponents of the sale) would argue that blocking this sale undermines Israel's security needs and its ability to conduct necessary military operations. They would emphasize the importance of maintaining a strong security relationship with a key regional ally and that these defense articles are crucial for defensive or operational purposes, asserting that the U.S. should not interfere with Israel's sovereign defense decisions.
The bill text is extremely short and can be read in under a minute, making it highly accessible for immediate understanding.
Resolved by the Senate and House of Representatives... (1) The sale of the following defense articles and services...
Prohibition of Specific Foreign Military Sale to Israel
This provision explicitly prohibits the proposed foreign military sale to the Government of Israel of D9R and D9T Caterpillar bulldozers, along with spare parts, technical documentation, and logistical support services. It cites Transmittal No. 24-38, which was submitted to Congress under the Arms Export Control Act, as the specific sale being blocked.
Supporters argue
Supporters of the resolution argue that blocking the sale of these bulldozers is essential to prevent their potential use in activities that violate human rights or international law, such as the demolition of homes or infrastructure in occupied territories. They contend that the U.S. has a moral obligation to ensure its military aid and sales do not contribute to such actions.
Critics contend
Opponents of the resolution (i.e., those who support the sale) would argue that these bulldozers are vital for Israel's military engineering operations, including defensive fortifications, clearing obstacles, and counter-terrorism efforts. They would assert that denying these assets would impair Israel's security capabilities and send a negative signal about U.S. commitment to its ally.
Tradeoffs
The resolution highlights a tension between supporting a key ally's security needs and ensuring that U.S.-supplied defense articles are not used in ways that conflict with American values or international legal norms. it also represents a balance of power between congressional oversight and executive branch authority in foreign policy.