A joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval of the proposed licensing of certain defense articles and services to Israel.

Key Points

• Sen. Sanders, along with Sens. Van Hollen, Merkley, and Welch, introduced a joint resolution to block the U.S. from licensing 5,000 Small Diameter Bombs for export to Israel. The resolution was referred to the Senate Committee on Foreign Relations.
• The resolution specifically targets a proposed arms sale that was formally notified to Congress on March 12, 2026. Under existing law, Congress has the power to disapprove certain arms export licenses by passing a joint resolution.
• The weapons in question are 5,000 Small Diameter Bomb systems, which are precision-guided munitions. If the resolution were enacted, the government would be legally prohibited from issuing the licenses needed to transfer these weapons to Israel.
• This resolution reflects an ongoing debate in Congress about U.S. military support for Israel. With only four Senate sponsors and the bill sitting in committee, it faces very long odds of advancing, but it serves as a formal expression of opposition to this specific arms deal.