US Approves $20 Billion Arms Sale to Israel Amidst Middle East Tensions
Despite looming ceasefire talks, the US has approved a $20 billion arms package for Israel, including fighter jets and advanced missiles, drawing criticism over the timing and potential for further escalation, CBS News reports.
“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to US national interests to assist Israel to develop and maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives,” the State Department said in a release on the sale.
The deal, which includes 50 F-15 fighter jets and advanced air-to-air missiles, has been in the works since April but comes as the region braces for possible further conflict. While the weapons are not expected to arrive for several years, the sale has sparked debate about the US’s continued support for Israel amid concerns over civilian casualties in Gaza.
The Biden administration has defended the initiative, arguing it is vital for Israel’s security. However, the move comes amidst calls to curb military aid to Israel due to the high number of civilian deaths in Gaza, prompting the administration to halt one delivery of 2,000-pound weapons earlier this year.
The announcement comes just two days before scheduled ceasefire talks, with Hamas refusing to attend, citing a lack of assurances from Israel on negotiating terms. The sale also follows Netanyahu’s claims that the US was withholding weapons deliveries for the Gaza conflict, a claim Washington has denied.
