Rep. Duncan Hunter, California Republican, sent a letter Thursday asking President Obama to approve the transfer of the Predator’s unarmed export version for surveillance missions.

“The decision to deny the license request should be reversed immediately,” Mr. Hunter wrote. “Doing so will provide Jordan critical mission capability in the fight against the Islamic State and ensure Jordan is given every advantage.

“Jordan has made requests for specific resources, including ammunition,” Mr. Hunter said. “Given our mutual interests, and our strong relationship, it’s absolutely critical that we provide Jordan the support needed to defeat the Islamic State.”