Proposed Legislation Would Enable Transfer of Strategic U.S. Weapons to Israel Amid Growing Iran Tensions

A new bipartisan bill introduced in the U.S. Congress could authorize the transfer of America’s most advanced stealth bombers and 30,000-pound bunker-buster bombs to Israel, marking a potential turning point in U.S.–Israel defense cooperation and signaling rising urgency over Iran’s nuclear program.

The legislation, spearheaded by Rep. Josh Gottheimer (D-NJ) and Rep. Mike Lawler (R-NY), grants the President executive authority to approve the sale or transfer of B-2 Spirit bombers and GBU-57A/B Massive Ordnance Penetrators (MOPs) weapons designed to destroy fortified underground facilities.

A Strategic Upgrade for Israel?

If passed, the bill would give Israel access to aircraft and munitions that no other U.S. ally has ever received, dramatically enhancing its capacity to strike heavily protected Iranian nuclear infrastructure.

“This legislation ensures that Israel can defend itself  by itself  against existential threats,” said Rep. Gottheimer during a press briefing. “It sends a clear message to Iran that the U.S. stands firm against nuclear escalation.”

The B-2 bomber, capable of penetrating sophisticated air defense systems, is designed to carry the 30,000-pound MOP the most powerful non-nuclear bomb in the U.S. arsenal, specifically engineered to destroy deep underground bunkers like those at Iran’s Fordo and Natanz enrichment sites.

Background: Fordo Strike and Growing Alarm

The bill follows a recent U.S. airstrike on suspected Iranian nuclear infrastructure, reportedly using similar weapons to target hardened facilities in Fordo and Natanz. While the Pentagon has not confirmed full details, satellite imagery and Iranian state media acknowledged significant structural damage.

These developments, combined with intelligence reports that Iran is enriching uranium close to weapons-grade levels, have spurred fresh concern among U.S. lawmakers and Israeli defense officials.

Analysts: A Shift in U.S. Military Export Policy?

Defense analysts say the bill represents more than just a show of support for Israel it could be a strategic shift in how the U.S. deploys deterrence in the Middle East.

Some critics in Congress have already raised concerns over technology transfer risks and potential blowback in U.S.–Gulf relations, particularly with Saudi Arabia and the UAE, who may now seek parity.

What Happens Next?

The bill will face committee review in the coming weeks, and while bipartisan support gives it momentum, any final decision on aircraft transfer will depend on President Trump, who has not yet commented publicly.

However, insiders say the administration is “closely aligned” with Israeli defense priorities, and could act quickly if Iran makes further nuclear advancements.

“This is more than diplomacy it’s preparation,” said one U.S. official. “The U.S. and Israel are preparing for scenarios that no one wants, but can no longer rule out.”