US set to approve 60,000 heavy bombs for Israel as top Democrat raises opposition

A proposed $2.8 billion U.S. arms sale of 40,000 2,000-pound bombs to Israel is facing strong opposition from leading Democrats in Congress. Representative Gregory Meeks, the ranking Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has publicly stated his intent to block the sale, citing grave concerns about the potential use of these powerful munitions. Senator Chris Van Hollen has also vowed to work against the transfer, criticizing the provision of heavy weaponry amidst ongoing bombardments in the region.

The opposition centers on worries that these bombs, including MK-84s and BLU-117s, may not be deployed in accordance with U.S. and international law, particularly in densely populated areas of Gaza and Lebanon. Critics fear the sale could contribute to civilian casualties and have questioned the Trump administration's assurance regarding their proper use. The munitions package is financed through Foreign Military Financing, meaning U.S. taxpayer dollars would fund Israel's acquisition of the weapons.

Despite the Democratic condemnation, the Trump administration retains the ability to proceed with the controversial arms package. The administration could bypass the standard congressional review process by issuing an emergency determination, a mechanism previously utilized for similar transactions. This move would allow the sale to advance even without the approval of key congressional figures.