A $8 billion arms package is being proposed by the US to Israel, including advanced munitions and missiles, as President Biden's term comes to an end. This decision comes amidst ongoing military conflicts and calls for a reassessment of military aid.
Biden's $8 Billion Arms Shipment to Israel Moves Forward
Biden's $8 Billion Arms Shipment to Israel Moves Forward
The US plans to send an $8 billion arms shipment to Israel as President Biden aims to secure his legacy before leaving office.
The US Department of State has confirmed the notification to Congress of a planned $8 billion (£6.4bn) arms sale to Israel, according to an American official speaking to the BBC. The consignment, which is subject to approval from House and Senate committees, will include a variety of advanced munitions such as air-to-air missiles, artillery shells, and Hellfire missiles. This move comes just weeks before President Joe Biden is set to leave office.
Despite widespread concerns over civilian casualties in the ongoing Gaza conflict, Washington has resisted calls to halt military support for Israel. In August, the US had already approved a massive $20 billion arms deal including fighter jets and other military equipment. A source familiar with the latest shipment emphasized that the president remains committed to supporting Israel’s right to defend itself, adding that such support aligns with international law and humanitarian standards.
Biden has consistently characterized US backing of Israel as "iron-clad." The US has played a pivotal role in equipping Israel, contributing to its status as one of the leading military powers globally. Data from the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) indicates that between 2019 and 2023, the US accounted for 69% of Israel's imports of major conventional arms.
In May 2024, the Biden administration had momentarily paused a shipment of bombs due to Israeli military actions in Gaza, leading to significant criticism from Republican lawmakers and Israeli officials. Following the controversy, Biden partially lifted the suspension and has since refrained from taking further similar actions.
This proposed shipment marks a critical phase for the Biden administration as it seeks to solidify its foreign policy legacy. With Biden set to depart the White House on January 20, 2025, and Donald Trump positioned to succeed him, the upcoming transition could shift US involvement in foreign conflicts. Although Trump has declared strong support for Israel, he has also advocated for a swift conclusion to the ongoing military operations in Gaza.
The backdrop of this military package lies in the intensifying conflict following Hamas' attacks on southern Israel on October 7, 2023, which resulted in a tragic loss of civilian lives and hostages taken. The conflict has claimed over 45,580 lives in Gaza, as reported by the territory's Hamas-led health ministry. As the US continues efforts to negotiate a ceasefire, the complexities surrounding military aid and international relations remain pressing issues.
