The United States is arguably the most powerful country in the world with regards to military might and international relations. In recent weeks, the US has reaffirmed its relationship with Israel amid increasing tensions in the Middle East, so it is no wonder why the Democratic party is attempting to impose stricter guidelines on providing weapons and other military aid to foreign countries. The move has been seen as a direct response to US President Donald Trump’s unwavering support for Israel and the Jewish state’s hardline policies on the Palestinians.
The proposed changes to the US Armed Export Controls Act (AECA) would require certain foreign governments to submit documentation including a detailed explanation of how a recipient country would use the weapons to comply with international law. The document must also explain the recipient country’s commitment to human rights and nonproliferation. In addition, the proposed legislation would require recipients to demonstrate how the recipient country would ensure the safety and security of the weapons after they are transferred.
Foreign governments would also need to certify that the professionals trained in the use of the weapons would act in accordance with international laws and regulations, such as prohibitions on the use of force and weapons of mass destruction. Finally, a recipient country must also be transparent about the transfer of weapons and provide a full accounting of all weapons transfers.
The Democratic Party has cited the volatile situation in Israel and Palestine and the increased need for better monitoring of weapons transfer as primary motivators for introducing these restrictions. The proposed AECA changes are a way for the United States to prevent its weapons from falling into the wrong hands in a time of heightened tensions and hostilities in the Middle East. The proposed bill is likely to pass through Congress, if given enough support. This latest move by the Democrats serves as evidence of the party’s dedication to maintaining responsible arms transfers and respecting human rights in foreign countries.