US Greenlights $20 Billion in Weapons Sales to Israel Amid Middle East War Fears

The U.S. has approved a significant arms sale to Israel, totaling $20 billion and including a range of military equipment such as fighter jets and advanced missiles, the State Department announced on Tuesday.

Congress has been informed about the upcoming sale, which features over 50 F-15 fighter jets, Advanced Medium Range Air-to-Air Missiles (AMRAAMs), 120 mm tank ammunition, high-explosive mortars, and tactical vehicles. This approval comes amid growing concerns about the potential for Israel to become involved in a broader conflict in the Middle East.

However, these weapons are not expected to reach Israel immediately. The contracts involved are long-term, with many of the systems not slated for delivery until at least 2026. The sale is intended to bolster Israel’s military capabilities over the long haul.

“The United States is committed to Israel’s security, and it is crucial for U.S. national interests to help Israel maintain a strong and ready self-defense capability. This proposed sale aligns with those goals,” the State Department stated in its release regarding the sale.

The Biden administration faces the challenge of supporting Israel while also addressing increasing demands from lawmakers and the public to limit military aid due to the high civilian casualties in Gaza. In light of ongoing airstrikes in densely populated areas of Gaza, the administration has already halted the delivery of certain 2,000-pound bombs to Israel.

The contracts not only include the production of 50 new aircraft by Boeing but also cover upgrade kits for Israel’s existing fleet of F-15 fighter jets. These upgrades, which involve new engines and radars among other enhancements, represent the largest portion of the $20 billion sale, with the first deliveries anticipated in 2029.