Top Democrat holds up $2.8 billion U.S. bomb sale to Israel

Representative Gregory Meeks, the top Democrat on the House Foreign Affairs Committee, has placed a procedural hold on a proposed $2.8 billion U.S. sale of 40,000 heavy bombs to Israel, citing concerns about their potential use in densely populated areas. The hold, announced on Wednesday, represents a significant political signal but does not guarantee the sale's cancellation, as the Trump administration has previously bypassed such congressional objections. Meeks stated he would not provide informal approval for the transfer, which includes 20,000 MK84 bombs, 20,000 BLU117 bombs, and 20,000 I2000 penetrator warheads. The weapons are to be provided through the U.S. Foreign Military Financing program. "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," Meeks said in a statement. He emphasized the decision reflects Congress's responsibility to ensure U.S.-funded weapons are used lawfully and with safeguards for human life. The proposed arms package is one of the largest of President Donald Trump's second term.