Top US Democrat blocks support for $2.8 billion bomb sale to ‘Israel’

US Representative Gregory Meeks, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Wednesday he will not support a proposed $2.8 billion munitions package for ‘Israel’ that includes tens of thousands of highly destructive 2,000-pound bombs.

Meeks, Ranking Member of the committee, announced he is placing a hold on the sale due to concerns the weapons would not be used in accordance with US and international law.

The Trump administration is advancing the package, which sources say includes about 40,000 of the bombs—specifically 20,000 MK-84s and 20,000 BLU-117s—among other items.

These munitions rank among the most powerful in the US arsenal and have drawn scrutiny for their use in densely populated areas.

In a statement, Meeks emphasized his continued support for ‘Israel’s’ security while outlining his objections.

“I remain firmly committed to Israel’s security and its ability to defend itself against serious regional threats. But the Trump administration’s proposed sale of 40,000 2,000-pound bombs, some of the most destructive munitions in our arsenal, raises grave, unresolved concerns about how these munitions could be used in densely populated areas of Gaza and Lebanon,” he said.

He added that the administration had failed to provide adequate guarantees.

“The Trump administration has not provided sufficient assurances that these weapons will be used by the Netanyahu government in accordance with U.S. law and with appropriate protections for civilians. I therefore will not clear this sale at this time. This decision does not diminish Congressional support for Israel’s legitimate defense needs; it reflects Congress’s responsibility to ensure that U.S.-funded weapons are used lawfully, responsibly, and with meaningful safeguards for human life,” he added.

Congressional leaders review major arms sales under an informal process.

Meeks’ objection alone cannot block the president from proceeding, and Trump has previously bypassed such reviews to expedite military support for ‘Israel’.

The package is financed through Foreign Military Financing, under which US funds enable ‘Israel’ to purchase the weapons.

Sen. Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), who has previously sought to restrict arms transfers, also vowed opposition.

“Trump is sending $2.8 BILLION of bombs paid for by YOU, the American taxpayer, to a govt led by a wanted war criminal,” he posted.

“All while Netanyahu keeps bombing Gaza & blocks justice for Americans killed on his watch. How is this America First? We will work to stop it.”

The 2,000-pound bombs have been used extensively by ‘Israel’ in Gaza and Lebanon, prompting criticism from rights groups over civilian casualties in urban settings.

Previous US administrations paused some shipments of similar munitions amid those concerns, though deliveries later resumed.