The U.S. Department of State has informed Congress about a proposed $8 billion arms shipment to Israel, confirmed by an American official. This weapons package, which includes air-to-air missiles aimed at countering airborne threats like drones, requires approval from both House and Senate committees. This initiative arrives just weeks before President Joe Biden’s exit from office, amid ongoing conflict and significant civilian casualties in Gaza, which the U.S. has declined to link to military aid to Israel.
Biden's $8 Billion Arms Shipment to Israel Under Congressional Review
Biden's $8 Billion Arms Shipment to Israel Under Congressional Review
The U.S. plans a substantial arms sale to Israel amid ongoing conflicts, signaling support for Israeli defense.
In August, the U.S. already sanctioned a $20 billion arms sale, emphasizing Biden's strong assertion that Israel has the right to defend its citizens in accordance with international law. A source involved in the latest deal reiterated that the U.S. will maintain its commitment to provide Israel with necessary defense capabilities.
Historically, the U.S. stands as Israel's primary arms supplier, contributing to its standing as a military powerhouse. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute highlights that between 2019 and 2023, 69% of Israel's major conventional arms were sourced from the U.S. This latest sale occurs as Israel escalates its campaign against Hamas, following a surprise attack on October 7 that resulted in over 1,200 Israeli fatalities and the capture of 251 individuals. In response, over 45,580 lives have been lost in Gaza, as reported by the territory’s Hamas-controlled health ministry, intensifying scrutiny over the ongoing military support from the U.S.
As discussions about military aid evolve, there are emerging tensions regarding U.S. expectations for increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza, suggesting that future support may hinge on the resolution of immediate humanitarian crises alongside military commitments.
Historically, the U.S. stands as Israel's primary arms supplier, contributing to its standing as a military powerhouse. The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute highlights that between 2019 and 2023, 69% of Israel's major conventional arms were sourced from the U.S. This latest sale occurs as Israel escalates its campaign against Hamas, following a surprise attack on October 7 that resulted in over 1,200 Israeli fatalities and the capture of 251 individuals. In response, over 45,580 lives have been lost in Gaza, as reported by the territory’s Hamas-controlled health ministry, intensifying scrutiny over the ongoing military support from the U.S.
As discussions about military aid evolve, there are emerging tensions regarding U.S. expectations for increased humanitarian assistance to Gaza, suggesting that future support may hinge on the resolution of immediate humanitarian crises alongside military commitments.
