Press Room

Press Releases

U.S. Should Halt Weapon Exports to Israel Israel's Use of Weapons is a Violation of U.S. Law

Posted on Thursday April 12, 2001

Washington – Today, the Arab American Institute wrote to Secretary of State Colin Powell asking that the Administration use its discretion under U.S. law to suspend the transfer of applicable U.S. weaponry to Israel.

The letter raises Israel’s use of U.S. supplied TOW missiles and helicopter gunships against Palestinians. Citing the U.S. Arms Export Control Act, AAI noted that the President has discretion to deny or closely scrutinize arms exports that may be detrimental to the peace process. According to the law, in considering whether or not to grant licenses for export, the President “shall take into account [among other things whether] the export will increase the possibility of outbreak or escalation of conflict.”

Unfortunately, Israel’s attack on Khan Yunis took place only hours after the State Department called on Israel to “cease the excessive use of force.” The attack was conducted under the cover of helicopter gunships and 30 Palestinian homes were demolished. During the attack, Israel reportedly fired missiles at the camp. Residents were not warned of the coming attack or demolitions.

AAI wrote, “For months now, the State Department has assured us that is matter is under active investigation. We believe that in light of Israel’s misuse of TOW missiles, the U.S. ought to conclude its investigation immediately and suspend further shipment of materials being used in violation of the law and contrary to our national interest. Such a decision has precedence as President Reagan twice suspended weapon shipments during Israel’s invasion of Lebanon.”

We urge President Bush and Secretary Powell to implement U.S. law—namely the U.S. Arms Export Control Act. When Israel misuses U.S. weaponry than we have a moral obligation to stop the supply of that weaponry,” said AAI President James Zogby.