Trump administration bypasses Congress to approve $151 million bomb sale to Israel amid war with Iran

The Trump administration has approved an emergency weapons sale to Israel, allowing the transfer of 12,000 bombs valued at more than $151 million while bypassing the normal congressional review process.

According to a State Department notice, Secretary of State Marco Rubio determined that the ongoing war involving Israel and Iran constitutes an emergency that requires immediate military support. That declaration allows the administration to waive the standard congressional notification period that typically applies to foreign military sales.

Under U.S. law, major weapons transfers are normally reviewed by Congress before they are finalized. However, administrations from both political parties have occasionally used emergency authorities to move arms sales more quickly when officials believe urgent national security interests are involved.

The sale includes thousands of bombs requested by Israel as the conflict with Iran continues to escalate. U.S. officials say the weapons are intended to support Israel’s defense operations and maintain its military readiness during the conflict.

The emergency declaration means the sale can move forward immediately without waiting for congressional approval or the standard review period.

The move comes as the United States and Israel continue coordinated military actions against Iran and its regional allies, a conflict that has increased tensions across the Middle East and raised concerns about the possibility of a broader regional war.

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