The State Department approves the sale of tank ammunition to Israel in a deal that bypasses Congress

A: The Biden administration approved this emergency sale because it deemed that an urgent need existed for Israel to acquire the tank ammunition due to its intensified military operations in the southern Gaza Strip. This decision bypassed the usual congressional review requirement for foreign military sales.

A: The sale is worth $106.5 million and includes 13,981 120 mm High Explosive Anti-Tank Multi-Purpose with Tracer tank cartridges, along with U.S. support, engineering, and logistics. The munitions will be sourced from the Army’s inventory.

A: The sale is being made outside the regular congressional approval process because the Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, determined that “an emergency exists that requires the immediate sale” in the U.S. national security interest. Such emergency determinations are rare but not unprecedented when there is a pressing need for arms sales.

A: Yes, the decision is related to President Biden’s request for a $106 billion aid package for Ukraine, Israel, and other national security purposes. This aid package has faced delays in Congress due to debates over immigration policy and border security, prompting the administration to approve this emergency sale separately.

A: Bypassing Congress for emergency arms sales has faced resistance in the past, and this sale is likely to spark debate and scrutiny among lawmakers. Public reactions may vary, with some supporting it as a move to bolster Israel’s defense capabilities, while others may question the decision to bypass congressional oversight.