Washington: US Sen. Chris Van Hollen vowed Wednesday to block a proposed $2.8 billion arms transfer to Israel, criticizing the provision of heavy munitions amid persistent bombardments across the Gaza Strip.

According to Anadolu Agency, the Democratic lawmaker from the state of Maryland expressed his concerns on US social media platform X, highlighting that the arms package, funded by American taxpayers, is being sent to a government led by a leader accused of war crimes. Van Hollen questioned how this aligns with domestic interests and US President Donald Trump's 'America First' policy, noting the ongoing military actions by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, which he claims undermine justice for Americans killed in the region.

Reports indicate that the Trump administration is planning an arms package that includes 40,000 bombs, each weighing 2,000 pounds (907 kilograms). The proposal reportedly features 20,000 MK-84 bombs, 20,000 BLU-117 munitions, and 20,000 I-2000 Penetrator warheads. These shipments were previously paused due to civilian casualty concerns but resumed after restrictions were lifted in January 2025.

The controversy arises as multiple US nationals have been killed by Israeli forces in Gaza and the occupied West Bank in recent years. Additionally, Netanyahu and former Defense Minister Yoav Gallant are currently wanted by the International Criminal Court for alleged war crimes and crimes against humanity in Gaza.