Trump Administration Repeals Biden-Era Order on U.S.-Supplied Weapons and Human Rights

 

In a significant policy shift, the Trump administration has rescinded a Biden-era order that required the U.S. government to report potential violations of international law involving U.S.-supplied weapons by allies, including Israel. The order, known as National Security Memorandum-20 (NSM-20), was signed by former President Joe Biden in February 2024 amid concerns over Israel's use of American bombs in its war in Gaza.

NSM-20 mandated that the U.S. government produce reports for Congress on the use of U.S. arms by other countries, ensuring that these weapons were not used in violation of international humanitarian law. However, the Trump administration, through an order issued by White House National Security Adviser Michael Waltz on February 21, has repealed this memorandum.

The decision has sparked controversy, with U.S. Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, a key proponent of congressional oversight of U.S. arms sales, calling the move "shameful" and a disservice to national security and global human rights. Van Hollen emphasized that the revocation undermines American taxpayers' right to ensure their dollars align with U.S. laws and national interests.

The Trump administration's decision to rescind NSM-20 has raised concerns about the credibility of assurances from U.S. allies, such as Israel, regarding their adherence to international humanitarian law when using U.S.-supplied weapons. Critics argue that this move reflects a blatant indifference to American values and a retreat from the principles of human rights and accountability.