Trump Administration Revokes Biden-Era Order on Reporting Potential Violations of International Law by Allies
The Trump administration has reversed a policy implemented by former President Joe Biden that required the U.S. government to report potential violations of international law involving U.S.-supplied weapons by allies, including Israel. This decision has sparked criticism from lawmakers and human rights advocates.
The policy, known as National Security Memorandum-20 (NSM-20), was signed by Biden in February 2024 following concerns over Israel's use of American bombs during its war in Gaza. The memorandum mandated the U.S. government to generate reports for Congress detailing the use of U.S. arms by other countries.
In May 2024, a report produced by the Biden administration under NSM-20 concluded that Israel might have violated international humanitarian law. However, due to the chaotic nature of the war, U.S. officials were unable to pinpoint specific instances of breaches that resulted in civilian harm.
Under NSM-20, the Trump administration would have been obligated to submit its own assessment of Israel's conduct to Congress in the coming months. However, on February 21, White House national security advisor Michael Waltz issued an order repealing NSM-20.
This decision has been met with strong disapproval from Senator Chris Van Hollen of Maryland, a prominent advocate for congressional oversight of U.S. arms sales. Van Hollen described the revocation as "shameful" and detrimental to national security, global human rights, and America's international standing. He further argued that the move undermines taxpayers' right to ensure their money is used in accordance with U.S. laws and interests.
NSM-20 applied to all countries involved in armed conflict that receive U.S. weapons. However, it generated dissent among U.S. officials regarding the credibility and reliability of Israel's assurances that it was using U.S.-supplied weapons in compliance with international humanitarian law.
Upon returning to office in January 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order mandating a review of all national security memoranda issued under the Biden administration. This review ultimately led to the revocation of NSM-20.
10 Comments
Matzomaster
“It’s refreshing to see leadership that’s willing to cut through inefficient policies. NSM-20 was more of a hindrance than help.”
Karamba
“Revoking NSM-20 is about preventing unnecessary conflicts and bureaucracy. It’s time to streamline our approach to international oversight.”
Rotfront
“This decision shows that America isn’t going to be bogged down by every criticism. It’s time to trust our allies and focus on real challenges.”
Katchuka
“This decision undermines global human rights and leaves taxpayers in the dark about how our arms are being used.”
Habibi
“How can we trust our government when they roll back measures meant to monitor potential human rights violations by our allies?”
Katchuka
“We need transparency, not secrecy! Etching NSM-20 back in place is crucial for holding allies accountable.”
BuggaBoom
“Instead of obsessing over tiny details, let our administration focus on greater, strategic goals. This order simplifies accountability.”
Loubianka
we trust our strategic partnerships, and we don’t need extra oversight.”
Noir Black
“Revoking NSM-20 is a massive step backwards. Without accountability, U.S. arms could be misused and innocent lives harmed.”
KittyKat
“Revoking NSM-20 is a bold move. It stops endless bureaucratic finger-pointing and allows our allies to act with confidence.”