Ramirez’s ‘Block the Bombs Act’ gains 73 co-sponsors as US-Israel arms policy faces legislative challenge
The proposal to restrict heavy munitions transfers to Israel has attracted progressive Democrats, Republicans, and previously pro-Israel figures, though it remains short of a majority in the 435-member chamber.
The ‘Block the Bombs Act’, a legislative proposal seeking to impose a partial embargo on United States weapons transfers to Israel, has secured 73 co-sponsors in the House of Representatives. One year after its introduction by Congresswoman Delia Ramirez, the tally has risen significantly from its initial 21 supporters. The measure aims to ban the transfer of specific heavy bombs and artillery ammunition, marking a notable shift in the legislative landscape regarding US foreign aid policy.
Despite the increase in co-sponsorship, the bill remains blocked by House Republican leadership and lacks the majority required for passage within the 435-member chamber. Advocates describe the growth in support as historic progress, noting that the measure has moved from the fringes to a more mainstream position in congressional discourse. However, the executive director of the Institute for Middle East Understanding, Margaret DeReus, emphasised that a long legislative road remains ahead for those seeking to alter unconditional aid structures.
The expanding coalition includes progressive Democrats, some Republicans, and figures who previously held strong pro-Israel positions. Congresswoman Valerie Foushee, who was elected with support from pro-Israel groups including the American Israel Public Affairs Committee (AIPAC), co-sponsored the bill in August 2025. Republican Congressman Thomas Massie, who lost his primary to a challenger backed by Trump and pro-Israel groups, also co-sponsored the measure this week, citing moral obligations to end support for what he described as the devastation of Gaza.
Congressman Christian Menefee, who defeated incumbent Al Green in a Texas primary, became the latest co-sponsor on Tuesday. This development follows a recent survey by the Institute for Global Affairs, which found that only 16 percent of respondents agreed that the US should continue supplying Israel with weapons without new restrictions. The Congressional Progressive Caucus has endorsed the bill, with chair Greg Casar stating that sustained public pressure can effectuate change within the party and the broader legislative body.
The legislative push coincides with broader congressional efforts to assert oversight over military engagements. On Wednesday, the House passed a resolution to rein in President Trump’s powers to attack Iran without congressional authorisation. Additionally, forty out of 100 Senators voted in April to block the transfer of military bulldozers to Israel. Despite these movements, Ramirez and other proponents argue that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza persists, with Israel continuing to restrict aid and launch attacks despite a ceasefire, underscoring their call for the bill to reach a floor vote.
