US Plans $8bn Arms Sale to Israel Amid Gaza Conflict.
New York:
The US Department of State has notified Congress of a planned arms sale to Israel, valued at $8 billion (£6.4bn), which includes missiles, shells, and other munitions. The sale, which requires approval from House and Senate committees, comes as the Biden administration stands by its support for Israel amid the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
The consignment includes air-to-air missiles, Hellfire missiles, artillery shells, and bombs. The sale has drawn attention due to its timing, just over two weeks before President Joe Biden’s term ends. Biden, who has consistently expressed his strong backing of Israel, reiterated that the US would continue to provide military support, emphasizing Israel’s right to defend its citizens in accordance with international law.
The US is Israel’s largest arms supplier, accounting for nearly 70% of its major conventional arms imports between 2019 and 2023. This planned shipment follows a previous $20 billion deal for fighter jets and other military equipment in August 2024. However, it is likely to be the final weapons sale to Israel during Biden’s presidency, as he prepares to hand over the White House to President-elect Donald Trump on January 20, 2025.
Despite growing calls to pause military aid in light of civilian casualties in Gaza, Washington has rejected such demands. While Trump, a strong supporter of Israel, has called for the rapid conclusion of Israel’s military operations in Gaza, Biden’s administration remains steadfast in its commitment to support Israel’s defense.
