The US Government has recently approved over $20 billion in new arms sales to Israel, despite the ongoing pressure on President Joe Biden’s administration to put an end to the bloodshed in Gaza. In a series of notifications sent to Congress by the State Department on Tuesday, it was stated that Washington is “committed to the security of Israel, and it is vital to US national interests to assist Israel in developing and maintaining a strong and ready self-defense capability.
The largest part of the package, worth about $18.8 billion, will include 50 new F-15IA fighter jets and the upgrade of 25 existing aircraft already in service for the Israeli Air Force. Furthermore, Israel plans to buy Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAM) for these new aircraft, approximately 33,000 120mm tank cartridges, up to 50,000 high-explosive mortars, and new military cargo vehicles.
According to the State Department, the proposed sale will not change the basic military balance in the region and is expected to have no adverse impact on US defense readiness. Most of the arms sales are long-term deals; however, this announcement comes amid fears that the ongoing conflict in Gaza could escalate into a broader Middle East war. Following the assassination of Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh by Iran and top Hezbollah military commander Fuad Shukr in Beirut in late July, both Tehran and Hezbollah have threatened retaliation against the Jewish state.
These events have sparked concerns over a potential full-blown war between Iran and Israel. On Monday, the leaders of France, Germany, and the UK jointly urged Iran and its allies to “refrain from attacks that would further escalate regional tensions.” Hostilities broke out after Hamas launched a surprise incursion into southern Israel last October, resulting in the deaths of around 1,100 people and the taking of 200 hostages. The Israeli response has claimed at least 39,800 lives, according to Palestinian health officials.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s government has reportedly felt increasing pressure from the Biden administration to put an end to the war amid growing international concern over Israel’s methods of warfare. However, it is likely that the newly approved weapons will not reach Israel for several years, according to Axios. The announcement may help deflect pre-election criticism from Republicans who argue that the Biden-Harris administration does not provide sufficient support to Israel.