US Approves $20 Billion In Weapons Sales To Israel Amid Threat Of Wider Middle East War
WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. has approved a significant arms deal with Israel, valued at $20 billion, which includes a substantial delivery of fighter jets and advanced air-to-air missiles, the State Department announced on Tuesday.
Congress has been notified of the proposed sale, which will include more than 50 F-15 fighter jets, Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs), 120mm tank ammunition, high-explosive mortars, and tactical vehicles. This decision comes at a time of heightened concern over the possibility of Israel becoming involved in a broader conflict in the Middle East.
However, these weapons are not expected to reach Israel immediately, as the contracts are set to be fulfilled over several years. The majority of the items being sold are intended to bolster Israel’s military capabilities in the long term, with the earliest deliveries under the contract anticipated in 2026.
“The United States is committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to U.S. national interests to assist Israel in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale is consistent with those objectives,” stated the State Department in its announcement.
The Biden administration faces a delicate balancing act in maintaining support for Israel while addressing growing calls from lawmakers and the American public to limit military aid due to the high number of civilian casualties in Gaza. Recently, the administration delayed the delivery of 2,000-pound bombs amid ongoing Israeli airstrikes in densely populated civilian areas in Gaza.
The contracts will not only cover the production of the new 50 aircraft by Boeing but will also include upgrade kits for Israel to enhance its existing fleet of two dozen F-15 fighter jets with new engines, radars, and other upgrades. The jets represent the largest portion of the $20 billion in sales, with the first deliveries expected in 2029.
#MiddleEast #USIsraelRelations #DefenseDeals #MilitaryNews #GlobalSecurity